LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 



7^ 

PENNSYLVANIA AT GETTYSBURG ^ 3 



CEREMONIES 



Dedication of the Monuments 



ERECTED BY THE 



COMMONWEALTH OF PENNSYLVANIA 



MAJOR-GENERAL GEORGE G. MEADE 
MAJOR-GENERAL WINFIELD S. HANCOCK 
MAJOR-GENERAL JOHN F. REYNOLDS 



MARK THE POSITIONS OF THE PENNSYLVANIA COMMANDS 
ENGAGED IN THE BATTLE 



The voice of a people — uprisen, — awake, — 
Pennsylvania's watchword with freedom at slake. 
Thrilling up from each valley, flung down from each height. 
'Our Country and Liberty! God for the Right!"' 



VOLUME 1 

1914 



I A- 






Entered according to the Act of Congress, 1914 

by the Editor and Compiler Bvt. Lt.-Col. John P. Nicholson 

Secretary Board of Commissioners 



i>. cf d;» 

m la ih% 



HARRISBURG, PENNA. 
VVM. STANLEY RAY, STATE PRINTER. 
1914. 



ADDEESS AT THE DEDICATION OF THE CEMETERY 
AT GETTYSBURG 



NoVEMItEK 19, 18G.J 



FOUR .scoie aud seven years ago oiii- fathers brought forth 
on this continent, a new nation, conceived in liberty, 
aud dedicated to the proposition that all men are created 
equal. 

Now we are engaged in a great Civil War, testing whether 
that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can 
long endure. We are met on a great battle-field of that war. 
We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final 
resting place for those who here gave their lives that that na- 
tion might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we 
should do this. 

But, in a larger sense, we cannot dedicate — we cannot con- 
secrate — we cannot hallow — this ground. The brave men, 
living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far 
above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little 
note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never 
forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to 
be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who 
fought here have thus far so nobly advanced— It is rather for 
us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before 
us — that from these honored dead We take increased devotion 
to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of de- 
votion — that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not 
have died in vain — that this nation, under God, shall have a 
new birth of freedom — and that government of the people, by 
the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth. 

ABRAHAM LINCOLN 



(i) 



BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS 

Under the Act approved June 15, 1887 

For the erection of Monuments to mark the position of the 

Pennsylvania Commands engaged in the Battle 

of Gettysburg, 



Brevet Brig. -General John P. Taylor President 

Brevet Lieut. -Colonel John P. Nicholson Secretary 

Brig. -General J. P. S. Gobin 

(Died May 1, 1910.) 

Colonel R. Bruce Ricketts 

Brevet Brig. -General Wm. Ross Hartshorne 

(Died June 12, 1905.) 

Lieut. Samuel Harper Secretary 

(Died May 16, 1899.) 



(ii) 



PREFACE. 



T 



HE General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Penn- 
sylvania at the session of 1887, passed the follow- 
ing: 



1. "Be it enacted, dc. That the sum of one hundred and twenty-one 
thousand five hundred dollars, or so much thereof as may be necessary, 
be and is hereby specifically appropriated out of any funds of the State 
Treasury for the purpose of perpetuating the participation in, and marking, 
by suitable memorial tablets of bronze or granite, the position of each of the 
commands of Pennsylvania volunteers engaged in the battle of Gettysburg. 



3. "That immediately after the passage of this act the Governor shall 
appoint five Commissioners, whose duty it shall be to select and decide 
upon the design and material for monuments of granite or bronze to mark 
the position of each Pennsylvania command upon the battlefield of Gettys- 
burg, and the said Commissioners shall serve without compensation, and 
they shall co-operate with five persons representing the survivors of the 
several regimental organizations or commands of this State engaged in the 
said battle, in the location of the said monuments and the selection thereof, 
and when such monuments shall be completed and properly erected the 
Auditor-General shall upon proper voucher to be presented by the said 
Commissioners, draw his warrant upon the State Treasurer for the sum 
of fifteen hundred dollars, which sum is hereby appropriated for the pay- 
ment of the monument of each Pennsylvania command or organization 
participating in said battle ; and should the survivors of any of the said 
commands fail, for a period of twelve months after the passage of this 
act, to agree upon the location or to co-operate with the said Commis- 
sioners as provided herein, then the said Commissioners shall have a suit- 
able monument erected, of the material aforesaid, to mark the position 
of such Pennsylvania command on the said battlefield, and a warrant for 
the cost thereof shall be drawn by the Auditor-General in the manner 
hereinbefore provided." 

On the 15th day of June, 1887, the Governor, Hon. James A. 
Beaver, approved the act, and on the 27th of June, 1887, is- 
sued commissions to Brevet Brigadier-General John P. Tay- 
lor, Brevet Brigadier-General J. P. S. Gobin, Brevet Lieuten- 

(iii) 



iv Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

ant-Colonel John P. Nicholson, Colonel R. Bruce Ricketts and 
Lieutenant Samuel Harper as the Commissioners. 

The Board was organized by the selection of Brevet Briga- 
dier-General John P. Taylor, President, and Lieutenant Samuel 
Harper, secretary. 

Monuments were dedicated under the appropriation during 
1887-1888. 

At a meeting of the Board, in November, 1888, Lieutenant- 
Colonel Nicholson submitted a resolution providing for a com- 
mittee to confer with Governor Beaver, having in view the 
setting apart a day for the dedication of the monuments in 
1889, under the auspices of the State and with appropriate 
ceremonies, to be styled "Pennsylvania Day." The Governor 
entered heartily into the suggestion and, at a conference with 
the Commissioners, May 11-12, 1889, was agreed upon. 

The Legislature at the session of 1889, in furtherance of the 
celebration, patriotically passed the following: 

Whereas, That the act of the Legislature of one thousand eight hun- 
dred and eighty-seven, provided for the erection of suitable monuments on 
the battlefield of Gettysburg, to mark the positions held by Pennsylvania 
organizations in said battle, which monuments are to be dedicated at such 
time during the present year as may be designated by the Governor of 
this Commonwealth, at which dedication the presence of all Pennsylvania 
soldiers who participated in the battle of Gettysburg is greatly desired ; 

And whereas. The people of this Commonwealth have always venerated 
the patriotic and heroic deeds of her soldiers and now desire not only to 
commemorate the sacrifices of the fallen heroes of the Republic, but also 
to honor the surviving veterans and make their remaining days comfort- 
able and happy ; therefore, 

Section 1. Be it enacted, dc. That at the time of the dedication of the 
monuments of the Pennsylvania organizations on the battlefield of Gettys- 
burg, there shall be provided and furnished, at the expense of the Common- 
wealth, transportation to all the surviving honorably discharged soldiers 
now residing in Pennsylvania whose names were borne upon the rolls of 
such organizations previously to, and at the date, of the battle of Gettys- 
burg, on July first, second and third, one thousand eight hundred and 
sixty-three, such transportation to cover distance from the stations at 
whicli such soldiers live or from the railroad stations nearest to their 
places of residence, by the shortest or most convenient route, to Gettys- 
burg and return, and shall be so arranged as to terms of passage that 
the said veterans shall have the privilege of remaining at Gettysburg not 
less than one week and shall have the privilege of stopping off at any 
station en route. 

Section 4. That the sum of fifty thousand dollars, or so much thereof 
as maj' be necessary, is hereby appropriated out of any money in the treasury 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. v 

not otherwise appropriated, to defray the expense of transportation pro- 
vided for in this act and expenses of the Gettysburg Battlefield Commis- 
sion incurred in making arrangements for dedication of said monuments; 
the money to be paid on requisition of the Adjutant-General and warrant 
of Auditor-General, drawn in the usual manner, providing that duly verified 
vouchers, showing the detailed disbursements under this act, shall bo made 
and filed in the Auditor-General's oflice. 

The act was approved by the Governor, May 8, 1889. 

The Commissioners at once proceeded with the details of 
the programme, but the serious illness of the secretary of the 
Commission, Lieutenant Samuel Harper, and the impractica- 
bility of the distribution of the transportation by the Ad- 
jutant-General in the short period of time elapsing betAveen 
the passage of the law and the date of the ceremonies agreed 
upon, induced the Commissioners in conference with the Gov- 
ernor, to postpone the dedication to September 11-12, 1889. 

Lieutenant Harper died May 16, 1889, and Lieutenant-Colo- 
nel Nicholson was elected secretary. 

The details of the ceremonies were at once arranged and 
the programme for September was announced. 

The orders for transportation under the law were distrib- 
uted by Brigadier-General D. H. Hastings, Adjutant-General, 
and the Board expresses its hearty thanks for the faithful per- 
formance of this duty, which, to a great extent, made the oc- 
casion a success. 

On the 5th of June, 1890, a conference with the representa- 
tives of the Pennsylvania Keserves was held at Harrisburg, 
having in view a "Pennsylvania Eeserve Day" at Gettysburg, 
upon the occasion of the dedication of the monuments of the 
Eeserve regiments. At this meeting, Tuesday, September 2, 
1890, was agreed upon and a committee appointed to act in 
conjunction with the Commissioners. On the day designated 
a large representation of this gallant corps assembled at 
Gettysburg and participated in the ceremonies in the National 
Cemetery. The success of the reunion was largely due to the 
active co-operation of Colonel John H. Taggart, Eleventh Re- 
serves; Captain John Taylor, Second Reserves; the President 
of the Pennsylvania Eeserve Association, ex-Governor An- 
drew G. Curtin, and the secretary of the Association, Sergt. 
James McCormick. 

Governor James A. Beaver, in his annual message, January 
6, 1891, to the General Assembly of Pennsylvania, said: 



vi Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

The dedication of those memorials upon Pennsylvania Day and Penn- 
sylvania Reserve Day has resulted in a large amount of regimental history, 
covering principally the part taken by the several organizations in the 
battle of Gettysburg. This mass of material should be systematized, 
edited and carefully preserved. If published in a single volume, with litho- 
graph cuts of the several monuments erected by Pennsylvania to her 
military organizations which participated in the battle of Gettysburg, 
it would of itself constitute the most striking monument illustrative 
of and perpetuating the memory of the part taken by the representa- 
tives of our Commonwealth upon her own soil in the greatest struggle 
of the War of Secession. I recommend a liberal appropriation for this 
purpose, to be expended under the direction of the Commission here-to- 
fore organized for the erection of monuments, the members of which, 
in their study of the subject, have qualified themselves for the intelligent 
and efficient discharge of such a duty. 

On January 26, 1891, Hon. J. P. S. Gobin, Senator from 
Lebanon county, introduced the following in the State Senate : 

AN ACT to provide for the publishing of the report of the proceedings of 
the dedication of the Pennsylvania monuments upon the battlefield of 
Gettysburg, providing for the distribution thereof and making an ap- 
propriation for the same. 

Section 1. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the 
Commonioealth of Pennsylvania in General Assembly met, and it is hereby 
enacted by the authority of the same. That there shall he published under the 
direction of the Gettysburg Battlefield Commission heretofore organized for 
the erection of monuments, nineteen thousand copies of its report of the 
proceedings of the dedication ceremonies of the Pennsylvania monuments 
iipon the battlefield of Gettysburg. To be published in one volume not 
to exceed one thousand pages, to be bound in half morocco, and to contain 
lithographs or other cuts of the several monuments, and such regimental 
history as may be necessary to properly perpetuate the memory of the 
part taken by the several Pennsylvania organizations. 

Section 2. The distribution of the aforesaid edition shall be as follows: 
Five hundred copies for the use of the Governor, one hundred and fifty 
copies for the use of the Lieutenant-Governor, one hundred and fifty copies 
for the use of the Secretary of the Commonwealth, three hundred copies 
for the use of the State Librarian, fifty copies each for use of Attorney-Gen- 
eral, Auditor-General, State Treasurer, Secretary of Internal Affairs, Super- 
intendent of Public Instruction, Adjutant-General, Commissioner of Insur- 
ance, and Superintendent of Public Printing and Binding ; one thousand 
copies for the use of the School Department for distribution to school 
superintendents, normal schools and school libraries in the Commonwealth, 
six hundred copies for use of the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of 
the State of Pennsylvania, six hundred and fifty copies for use of the 
Grand Army of the Republic for distribution among the Posts of the De- 
partment of Pennsylvania, fifty copies for the use of the encampments 
of the Union Veteran Legion of the State of Pennsylvania, two hundred 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. vii 

copies for the use of the memhors of the B;ittlefield Mouumeutul Commis- 
sion, five thousand copies for tlie use of the Senate, and ten thousand copies 
for the use of the House to be delivered to the members of the present 
Legislature. 

Governor Kobert E, Pattison appreciatively approved the 
act, May 7, 1891. 

The General Assembly, May 31, 1901, passed the following : 

AN ACT making an appropriation for the erection of monuments to Major- 
General Meade, Major-General Reynolds and Major-General Hancock 
on the battlefield of Gettysburg. 

Section 1. Be it enacted, &c.. That the sum of one hundred thousand 
dollars, or so much thereof as may be necessary, be and is hereby specifi- 
cally appropriated out of any funds in the State Treasury for the purpose 
of erecting equestrian statutes in bronze of Major-General Meade, Major- 
General Reynolds and Major-General Hancock upon the battlefield of 
Gettysburg . 

Section 2. That immediately after the passage of this act the Pennsyl- 
vania Gettysburg Monument Commission shall select and decide upon de- 
signs for monuments of bronze or granite to Generals Meade, Reynolds 
and Hancock upon the battlefield of Gettysburg, locate and have the same 
placed upon proper and substantial foundations, the locations to be in 
the vicinities made famous by the presence of the aforesaid officers re- 
spectively during the battle. The Commissioners shall serve without com- 
pensation and make a report of their action to the Governor. When such 
equestrian statues shall be completed and properly erected the Auditor- 
General shall upon proper voucher to be presented by the said Commission- 
ers draw his warrant upon the State Treasurers for the amount due 
thereon not to exceed the sum of one hundred thousand dollars. 

Governor Daniel H. Hastings approved this law and con- 
tracts were made for the erection of the equestrian statues 
at a cost of $30,000 for the statue of General Meade, |22,000 
for the statue of General Hancock and |20,000 for the statue 
of General Eeynolds and the three pedestals $23,000, leaving 
a balance in the State Treasury of $5,000. 

The ceremonies of the dedication are detailed in the report. 

The General Assembly in session in 1901, made an appropria- 
tion for the erection of a monument to John Burns as follows : 

Section 1. Be it enacted, dc. That the sum of one thousand five hun- 
dred dollars, or so much thereof as may be necessary, be and the same is 
hereby specifically appropriated to the Board of Commissioners on Gettys- 
burg Monuments for the erection of a suitable monument to the memory 
of John Burns, at some appropriate place upon the Gettysburg battlefield 
to be chosen by said Commissioners. 



viii Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

Goveruor Wm. A. Stoue approved this act July 18, 1901, 
and the monument was dedicated with appropriate ceremonies 
July 1, 1903, forty years after the date of his services to the 
Commonwealth. 

At the 36th Annual Encampment of the Grand Army of the 
Republic, Department of Pennsylvania, held at Gettysburg, 
Pa., June 4-5, 1902, Comrade John M. Vanderslice submitted 
the following Preambles and Kesolutions which were unani- 
mously adopted : 

Whekeas, The first publication of "Pennsylvania at Gettysburg" was 
not sufficient to even supply those who had participated in that important 
engagement in 1863, 

And whereas. In that battle the regiments from Pennsylvania bore an 
important part, and there is a general demand throughout the State for a 
reprint in order that many of the survivors mijy be enabled to secure copies; 
therefoi-e, be it 

Resolved, That the forthcoming Legislature be and they are hereby earn- 
estly requested to enact a law ordering fifteen thousand (15,000) copies of 
"Pennsylvania at Gettysburg." 

Resolved, That the incoming Department Commander is hereby directed 
to have these preambles and resolutions presented to the Legislature, and 
to urge their passage. 

In furtherance of the resolutions Department Commander, 
Comrade R. P. Scott, submitted the request to the Legisla- 
ture and the General Assembly passed the following : 

Section 1. Be it enacted, dc.. That there shall be published under the 
direction of the Gettysburg Battlefield Commission heretofore organized 
for the erection of monuments nineteen thousand copies of its report of 
the proceedings of the dedicatory ceremonies of the Pennsylvania monu- 
ments upon the Battlefield of Gettysburg and the ceremonies at the dedi- 
cation of the Equestrian Statues of Generals Meade, Hancock and Rey- 
nolds. To be published in two volumes not to exceed fifteen hundred 
pages and to contain illustrations of the several monuments and statues 
and such regimental history as may be necessary to properly perpetuate 
the memory of the part taken by the several Pennsylvania organizations. 

Section 2. The distribution of the aforesaid edition shall be as follows: 
Five hundred copies for the use of the Governor, one hundred and fifty 
copies for the use of the Lieutenant-Governor, one hundred and fifty 
copies for the use of the Secretary of the Commonwealth, three hundred 
copies for the use of the State Librarian, fifty copies each for the use 
of Attorney-General, Auditor-General, Adjutant-General, State Treasurer, 
Secretary of Internal Affairs, Superintendent of Public Instruction, Com- 
missioner of Insurance and Superintendent of Public Printing and Bind- 
ing, one thousand copies for the use of the School Department for distri- 
bution to school superintendents, normal schools and school libraries in the 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. ix 

(Viuiiiionwealtb, six huudred and fifty copies for the use of tlie Grand 
Army of tlie Republic for distribution among the several posts of the 
Department of Pennsylvania, six hundred copies for the use of the Military 
Order of the Loyal Legion Commandery of the State of Pennsylvania, 
fifty copies for the use of the encampments of the Union Veteran Legion 
of the State of Pennsylvania, two hundred copies for the use of the 
members of the Battlefield Monument Commission, five thousand copies 
fur the use of the Senate and ten thousand copies for the use of the House 
of Representatives to be delivered to the members of the present Legis- 
hiture. 

Governor Samuel W. Pennypacker whose services to the 
Commonwealth commenced on the field of Gettysburg, ap- 
proved the act May 15, 1903. 

In this abstract of the Commission's work they express 
their thanks to Brevet Major-General David McM. Gregg, chief 
marshal, and his chief-of-staff, Brevet Lieutenant-Colonel 
Sylvester Bonnafton, Jr., for the important part they took in 
making ''Pennsylvania Day" memorable. 

To Brevet Brigadier-General James A. Beaver, as Governor 
of the Commonwealth, Pennsylvania owes a debt of gratitude, 
for to him it is due in a great measure tliat the battlefield of 
Gettysburg is marked with memorials of Pennsj^lvania's sacri- 
fices and the services of her sons recited. 

The General Assembly 1912-1913, passed the following Act, 
778: 

Section 1. Be it enacted, cGc, That the Superintendent of Public Print- 
ing and Binding is hereby authorized and directed to print and bind, at the 
expense of this Commonwealth, five thousand five hundred copies of a pub- 
lication to be entitled "Pennsylvania at Gettysburg," which is to include 
the report of the Board of Commissioners on Gettysburg Monuments, here- 
tofore published, and which is to be revised to date; the report of the Get- 
tysburg Battlefield Memorial Commission, and the report of the Fiftieth 
Anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg Commission. 

Section 2. The "Pennsylvania at Gettysburg" publication is to be re- 
vised and edited by Colonel John P. Nicholson, who shall prepare all neces- 
essary copy, read all proofs of the compilation, and index same. 



Governor John K. Tener ajjproved the act, July 25, 1913. 

JOHN PAGE NICHOLSON, 
BREVET LIEUT. -COLONEL U. S. V. 

Secretary . 



(X) 



PENNSYLVANIA COMMANDS ENGAGED IN THE BATTLE 
OF GETTYSBURG OR PRESENT ON THE FIELD 



Eleventh Regiment Infantry. 

Twenty-third Regiment Infantry. 

Twenty-sixth Regiment Infantry. 

Twenty-seventh Regiment Infantry. 

Twenty-eighth Regiment Infantry. 

Twenty-ninth Regiment Infantry. 

Thirtieth Regiment Infantry (First Reserve) . 

Thirty-first Regiment Infantry (Second Reserve) . 

Thirty-fourth Regiment Infantry (Fifth Reserve) . 

Thirty-fifth Regiment Infantry (Sixth Reserve) . 

Thirty-eighth Regiment Infantry (Ninth Reserve) . 

Thirty-ninth Regiment Infantry (Tenth Reserve). 

Fortieth Regiment Infantry (Eleventh Reserve) . 

Forty-first Regiment Infantry (Twelfth Reserve) . 

Forty-second Regiment Infantry (Thirteenth Reserve, First Kifles). 

Forty-sixth Regiment Infantry. 

Forty-ninth Regiment Infantry. 

Fifty-third Regiment Infantry. 

Fifty-Sixth Regiment Infantry. 

Fifty-seventh Regiment Infantry. 

Sixty-first Regiment Infantry. 

Sixty-second Regiment Infantry. 

Sixty-third Regiment Infantry. 

Sixty-eighth Regiment Infantry. 

Sixty-ninth Regiment Infantry. 

Seventy-first Regiment Infantry. 

Seventy-second Regiment Infantry. 

Seventy-third Regiment Infantry. 

Seventy-fourth Regiment Infantry. 

Seventy-Fifth Regiment Infantry. 

Eighty-first Regiment Infantry. 

Eighty-second Regiment Infantry. 

Eighty-third Regiment Infantry. 

Eighty-fourth Regiment Infantry. 

Eighty-eighth Regiment Infantry. 

Ninetieth Regiment Infantry. 

Ninety-first Regiment Infantry. 

(1) 



I Pennsylvania, at Gettyshurg. 

Ninety-third Regiment Infantry- 
Ninety-fifth Regiment Infantry. 
Ninety-sixth Regiment Infantry. 
Ninety-eighth Regiment Infantry. 
Ninety-ninth Regiment Infantry. 
One Hundred and Second Regiment Infantry. 
One Hundred and Fifth Regiment Infantry. 
One Hundred and Sixth Regiment Infantry. 
One Hundred and Seventh Regiment Infantry. 
One Hundred and Ninth Regiment Infantry. 
One Hundred and Tenth Regiment Infantry. 
One Hundred and Eleventh Regiment Infantry. 
One Hundred and Fourteenth Regiment Infantry. 
One Hundred and Fifteenth Regiment Infantry. 
One Hundred and Sixteenth Regiment Infantry. 
One Hundred and Eighteenth Regiment Infantry. 
One Hundred and Nineteenth Regiment Infantry. 
One Hundred and Twenty-first Regiment Infantry. 
One Hundred and Thirty-ninth Regiment Infantry. 
One Hundred and Fortieth Regiment Infantry . 
One Hundred and Forty-first Regiment Infantry. 
One Hundred and Forty-second Regiment Infantry. 
One Hundred and Forty-third Regiment Infantry. 
One Hundred and Forty-fifth Regiment Infantry. 
One Hundred and Forty-seventh Regiment Infantry. 
One Hundred and Forty-eighth Regiment Infantry. 
One Hundred and Forty-ninth Regiment Infantry. 
One Hundred and Fiftieth Regiment Infantry. 
One Hundred and Fifty-first Regiment Infantry. 
One Hundred and Fifty-third Regiment Infimtry. 
One Hundred and Fifty-fifth Regiment Infantry. 
Twenty-sixth Emergency Regiment Infantry. 
First Regiment Cavalry. 
Second Regiment Cavalry. 
Third Regiment Cavalry- 
Fourth Regiment Cavalry. 
Sixth Regiment Cavalry. 
Eighth Regiment Cavalry. 
Sixteenth Regiment Cavalry. 
Seventeenth Regiment Cavalry. 
Eighteenth Regiment Cavalry. 
Twenty-first Regiment Cavalry. 
Battery B, First Artillery. (Cooper.) 
Battery F, First Artillery. (Ricketts.) 
Battery G, First Artillery. (Ricketts.) 
Battery 0, Independent Artillery. (Thompson.) 
Battery E, Independent Artillery. (Knap.) 
Battery F, Independent Artillery. (Hampton.) 
Battery H, Third Heavy Artillery. (Rank.) 



GETTYSBURG 



PENNSYLVANIA DAY 



SEPTEMBER 11-12 



1889 



(3) 



PENNSYLVANIA DAY 

GETTYSBURG, SEPTEMBER 11-12, 1889 



WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER IITH 

Dedication of the Monuments 

of the Pennsylvania Commands engaged in the Battle 

By the Survivors' Associations. 



CEREMONIES IN NATIONAL CEMETERY 

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12TH, 1.30 P. M. 

PRESIDING 

Brevet Lieut. -Colonel George Meade 
Staff of Major-General George G. Meade, commanding Army of the Potomac 



MUSIC 

The Star-spangled Banner 

The "Arion Singing Society" 

Prof. J. C. Frank, Leader 

PRAYER 

Reverend John R. Paxton, D. D. 

Second Lieutenant 14(Kh Penna. Infantry 

ANTHEM 

''Praise the Lord" 

The "Arion Singing Society" 

TRANSFER OF THE MONUMENTS TO THE GOVERNOR 

Honorable J. P. S. Gobin 
Brevet Brigadier-General: Colonel 47th Penna. Infantry 

ACCEPTANCE ON BEHALF OF THE COMMONWEALTH 

Governor James A. Beaver 

Brevet Brigadier-General; Colonel 148th Penna. Infantry. 

POEM, "Gettysburg" 
Isaac R. Pennypacker, Esq. 

THE FIRST DAY, July 1, 1863 

Brevet Captain Joseph G. Rosengarten 

First Lieutenant 121st Penna. Infantry: 

Aide-de-Camp Staff of Major-General John F. Reynolds 

THE SECOND AND THIRD DAYS, July 2-3, 1863 

Brevet Brigadier-General Henry H. Bingham 

Major and Judge- Advocate Staff of Major-General Winfleld S. Hancock 

MUSIC 
Dedication Quartette 

TRANSFER TO BATTLEFIELD MEMORIAL ASSOCIATION 
Governor James A. Beaver 

ACCEPTANCE ON BEHALF OF THE ASSOCIATION 
Edveard McPherson, Esq. 

MUSIC 
Dedication Quartette and Perseverance Band 

BENEDICTION 
Reverend David Craft, D. D. 
Chaplain 141st Penna. Infantry 

(4) 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



PKAYER. 



Lieut. John R. Paxton, D. D. 



ALMIGHTY God, Great Ordainer of all things, Mighty 
Sustainer of all Thy creatures, we are Thy people, pre- 
served by Thy power, cared for by Thy love and re- 
deemed by Thy grace. And whatsoever we do, whether we 
eat or drink, whether we cultivate the art of peace, or hasten 
unto battle, whether we celebrate a birth or commemorate the 
dead, whatsoever we do, we sincerely desire to do all in Thy 
fear and to Thy glory, thou Omnipotent God without whose 
blessing we can do nothing ivell and against whom we can do 
nothing long. 

We bless Thee as the God of Righteousness and Truth, 
whose presence can be discerned on battlefields, enforcing 
just judgment by the sword and bayonet as well as in the 
houses of mourning inspiring hope, and soothing sorrow, or by 
the beds of dying men offering pardon and eternal life through 
Jesus Christ our Lord. 

We bless Thee as the God of Nations as well as of personal 
destiny. We see Thy hand moving amongst the affairs of the 
world, overturning dogmas of false worship, inflicting defeat 
upon wrong and wicked causes, and visiting with retributive 
punishment all unholy enterprises that offend Thy justice and 
truth. 

In times past we see Thy hand moving amongst our affairs 
as a nation. Friends and allies of Thine assisted at our birth 
as a nation, and by Thy care and favor we have prosjiered as 
a people and grown great and powerful in the eyes of all the 
world, because we have, in the main, loved righteousness and 
truth and hated injustice, oppressions and lies. 

Almighty God, continue to us, we pray Thee, as a nation, 
through all future generations. Thy favor and Thy care, then 
with God on our side we shall not fear the wrath of men nor 
2 



6 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

the gates of hell, and the Great Eepublic, the land we love, 
shall abide forever. 

And now, O God, onr father's God, our countrj^'s God, for 
the occasion before us, and upon these memorial services, we 
confidently invoke Thy presence and Thy blessing, firmly be- 
lieving that this day, and the dead around us, deserve Thy ap- 
probation, and are wortliy of Thy consenting presence and 
Thy loving smile. Almighty and most Holy God, the Eternal 
Father, the Sovereign Ruler in Heaven, and on Earth, Lord 
of Lords, Great and Supreme God against whom no star ever 
rebelled, nor any sea ever mutinied, daring to overleap its pre- 
scribed boundaries, to Thee we boldly and confidently appeal; 
and on this memorial, this historic, this sacred field where our 
dead comrades sleep we fear not to claim Thy presence and 
Thy blessing. 

Hide not, O God, Thy face from us, nor keep back Thy smile 
and benediction, while we, survivors of this tremendous and 
terrific battlefield, on which treason and rebellion were fatal- 
ly wounded, and the Union and the right assured of their final 
triumph, in grateful memory of our comrades who fell here, 
on the soil of our own state, and from our own homes, dedi- 
cate these monuments to their everlasting remembrance. O 
be with us in all these solemn and tender services, for in Thy 
power we begin them, and under Th}' smile have to conclude 
them. The battle was fought and won by our comrades who 
sleep sweet beneath Thy smile, under the sod, and by us wlio 
survived to mourn their death, and pay loving tribute to 
their memory. May these marble and bronze monuments, 
erected in loving memory of our fallen comrades, stand while 
the Eepublic endures, and preach patriotism to unborn gene- 
rations on this eventful and sacred field. 

We thank Thee, O God, for the faithfulness unto death of 
the heroic dead whose bones repose in this hallowed ground. 
May their memory be green in our hearts while life lasts. 
May the country for which they voluntarily and gladly shed 
their blood prosper, and survive the vicissitudes of time, and 
the calamities of fortune, great, united, enduring. May we 
be as loyal and patriotic in peace as we were in war, by the 
side of our comrades at rest under our feet. May the children 
cherish and perpetuate the institution, the constitution, the 
liberty and love and equality, our comrades died to maintain. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 7 

And now Thy holy, helpful blessing we claim and crave on 
the day, on onr dead, on our country, north and south, on our 
President, our Governor and the dear old State, which we and 
our common brothers who sleep in well-earned graves on this 
sacred battlefield, are proud to call our own, we ask in Christ's 
name. Amen. 



ANTHEM: ^'Praise the Lord." 

The Ai'iou Siiigiiij' Hociety. 



THE TKANSFEE OF THE MONUMENTS TO THE 
GOVERNOR OF THE COMMONWEALTH. 



Brevet Brig. -General ,T. P. S. Gobin. 



GOVERNOR BEAVER: The Commission appointed by 
3'ourself under the provision of the act of assembly ap- 
proved June 15, 1887, desire to present to the State of 
Pennsylvania, through you, as its executive, the result of their 
labor. They were directed to "select and decide upon the de- 
sign and the material for monuments of granite and bronze to 
mark the position of each Pennsylvania command upon the 
battlefield of Gettysburg," and the object of the erection of 
these monuments was declared to be "for the purpose of per- 
petuating the participation in and marking by suitable memo- 
rial tablets of granite or bronze the position of each of the 
commands of Pennsylvania volunteers engaged" in that battle. 
From the earliest era of which we have historical data, na- 
tions and individuals have delighted to honor heroic deeds, 
and euduringly mark the spot upon which the fate of govern- 
ments was involved in the shock of battle. Even though the 
result in many instances, impeded the onward march of pro- 
gressive thought and shackled the limbs of advancing free- 
dom, the natural pride with which was beheld the prowess of 
her soldierly upon that field, demanded of the nation suitable 



8 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

commemoration of the event, and a definite location of the 
scene. In the memories and traditions of past centuries, the 
legends of the middle ages, the histories of the ancient rulers, 
or the struggles of nations for a better civilization, the one 
place made sacred is that upon which their armies fought and 
conquered. Every nationality has insisted upon tributes of 
this character, and many have learned important lessons from 
them. We remember the story of one of the old conquerors 
of Greece, who, Avhen he had traveled in his boyhood over the 
battlefield where Miltiades had won victories and set up 
trophies, upon his return, said, "These trophies of Miltiades 
will never let me sleep." Each feature of the chiseled granite 
was an inspiration to him as a soldier, and, doubtless, had an 
inspiring efi'ect upon his subsequent career. 

The Romans who placed the busts of their successful leaders 
upon their coin, the Swiss who employed the genius of Thor- 
waldsen to boldl}' hew from the granite face of the Alps a lion 
to perpetuate the courage of their countrymen in a foreign 
land, the nations embodying their patriotism or skill at arms 
by triumphal arch or memorial column, were all actuated by 
the same motive. Even beyond these, upon the banks of the 
Nile, as remote as the days when the Pharaohs ruled, and amid 
the sands of old Assyria, can we find the remains of magnifi- 
cent specimens of memorial architecture. 

In how many instances, however, were these but the work 
of hands which had been held aloft Avith glee as the conqueror 
passed in triumphal procession through the capital, with his 
enslaved prisoners bound to his chariot wheels; or, at best, 
were but the tribute to the ambition of kings, or, still more to 
be regretted, the result of the superior prowess of disciplined 
forces ovjer hastily gathered levies defending their homes from 
ruthless invaders? Happily, upon this field every tablet rep- 
resents loyalty to country and flag — a sublime devotion to 
duty never excelled in the world's history. They have been 
erected in response to the sentiment of the nation, demanding 
that which should be a patriotic remembrance for all time. 
Where the men of their state fought and died with the na- 
tion's life in deadly peril — where rebellion against it reached 
the noon-tide of its progress, and from thence went reeling out 
to meet its inevitable sunset at Appomattox — should the 
granite and bronze arise. They represent a united country 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 9 

cemented by the ordeal of battle — refined, clarified and 
strengthened in the furnace of war, and the circle of fire in 
which armies fought and navies sailed. Each block stands 
for a unity of interest in every part of the laud, arid a national 
future one and indivisible. Whatever may have been the 
opinion of the individual as to the primal cause of the re- 
bellion, they rest in the graves of the fallen, with the memorial 
tablets of the various states keeping watch over the places in 
which they lie buried forever. Thus the lives of those we rep- 
resent on this occasion were not lost to their country or their 
kindred — they are eloquent even in their nameless graves. 
They crowd about us with all the incentives of honor and pa- 
triotism. They survive in our admiration of their deeds, in 
our respect for their sacrifices, in love for their patriotism and 
devotion to country. As the representatives of principles 
which are eternal, so will their memories remain. Through 
the efforts of the dead and living but one flag floats, or dare 
float, in this, our common country. To do justice to them, it 
should be so planted as to wave above all error, sectionalism 
injustice or division of sentiment as to the righteousness of 
the cause for which those we represent yielded up their lives. 

In this, however, we by no means desire to confine our allu- 
sions to this immediate vicinity. It is but part of such a line 
or series of lines of battle as the world never beheld. The 
right resting at Donelsou, it encircles a vast extent of country 
until the left is reached here in this quiet valley of the Key- 
stone State, in the vast circle that sweeps down the Missis- 
sippi to the gulf, diverges to the Kio Grande, and eastward 
through to the Atlantic, coursing along its coast, and, by the 
familiar Potomac, leaping the wide rivers and high mountains 
— lines of natural defense — to where we at present stand. Its 
entire length is marked by honored graves — veteran sentinels 
of liberty — whose challenges will be heard forever and aye by 
all disturbers of the nation's unity, or conspirators against 
its honor. They will speak with the authority of the em- 
battled hosts who fell in that line resisting the advance of 
error, and with the result that all now sit in peace and com- 
fort. 

But with reverent respect for all, we are, to-day, desirous of 
doing honor to the soldier of our own state. These are their 
monuments. These graves contain the dead of the state who 



10 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

fell upon this field. Men of Pennsylvania, they were of your 
flesh and blood, they went out from your homes, they battled 
for the preservation of your firesides, and the vacant chairs 
remain within your households. Their comrades claim them 
in memory and friendship, and it is a claim as far-reaching as 
the warm-throbbing heart of the old soldier can make it. 
With tear-dimmed eyes they range over this field as over no 
other spot in all the land, and would say to the trespasser, 
"put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon 
thou standest is holy ground." 

This being Pennsylvania's battlefield, what more fitting 
than to properly commemorate the deeds of Pennsylvania's 
soldier sons upon her soil ? Here, as everywhere, at the call 
of duty, during the entire period of the rebellion were the 
men of Pennsylvania conspicuous. It has been contended that 
the battle of Gettysburg is of much greater scope than that 
which the hills around us encompass, vast as that is. Some 
would even include the entire extent of territory lying be- 
tween the battle grounds and the fords of the Eappahannock 
in Virginia. Full of interest and importance as the days pre- 
ceding were, it culminated in the struggle which began on the 
1st and ended on the 3d of July, 18G3, and to this history will 
confine it. 

Take a view of whatever portion of the field within the 
lange of your vision, and you behold Pennsylvania's memorial 
tablets. Upon the cavalry skirmish-line with Buford, in the 
column which Ee3-nolds led to its position, and in the line 
which formed as his prostrate form was carried to the reai' — 
upon the extreme right and left flank of the First Corps were 
regiments from the Keystone State, and the first infantry fire 
poured into the advancing enemy was from another of them. 
In that corps death reaped a rich harvest of gallant Pennsyl- 
vanians. When the Eleventh Corps was hastily thrown into 
action they were in the advanced line, and the losses recorded 
attest the manner in which they fought. One of her batteries 
took possession of east Cemetery Hill, and the first day's fight- 
ing sullenly ended amid the shotted salutes with which the 
enemy were greeted from these guns. 

Upon the second day, amid all the fighting on every part of 
the field, their record was well maintained. In the volume of 
battle which began on the left of our line and surged alono- the 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 11 

Third Corps, involving it and parts of others, no more heroic- 
deeds were witnessed than those which Pennsylvania soldiers 
performed. Clinging to the lines at the peach orchard, surg- 
ing back and forth through the wheat field, changing front 
under terrific fire, amid the rocky sides of the Eound Tops, 
were heard the crack of their rifles and their shouts of defi- 
ance. Aiid at this point the sun of battle went down as the 
Pennsylvania Reserves charged down the slope and over the 
valley of death, driving before them the last line of the enemy 
attacking this position. As they planted the Maltese cross 
of the Fifth Corps, the men of the Sixth displayed their Greek 
cross in support, and the left was safe. Away on the right 
was the Twelfth Corps, and its star waved over Culp's and 
Wolf's Hills. Here the battle raged fiercely, and there, too, 
were Pennsylvanians and not an inch of ground was yielded, 
until, under orders, they vacated it to aid another part of the 
line. As if to fittingly close the second day, it remained for 
her sons to meet the charge of the enemy upon east Cemetery 
Hill, and over the guns of her batteries men fought with a 
courage and desperation never exceeded, and using weapons 
unheard of in such warfare. Here, also, nightfall beheld the 
enemy defeated and disconfited, and the position of regiments 
and batteries which had fought upon every part of the field 
could have been marked at that time by the dead, who lay as 
they had fallen, with their faces to the foe. 

The morning of the third day was ushered in by the deter- 
mined effort of the Twelfth Corps to re-occupy their vacated 
lines. Aided by detachments of the Sixth they obscured the 
sun with their smoke of battle, and after five hours of inces- 
sant fighting they were back in the entrenchments, and the 
right of the line was secure. 

You cannot fail to recognize the Pennsylvanians, who, at 
this part of the field, represented their state and nation. And 
now, in the quiet wiiich prevailed until after the midday hour, 
batteries, cavalry and infantry gird their loins for the final 
contest all knew to be impending. When, from Seminary 
Ridge, the cannonading of over one hundred guns shook the 
earth, quickly and effectively was it responded to. When the 
enemy sought to move troops from their right to strengthen 
and reinforce their center they found cavalry there to prevent 
it, and they did prevent it. Away off to the right the mounted 



12 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

legions seek to turn that flank and reach the rear of our line. 
There, also, were our cavalry, and the Kummel Farm became 
the scene of one of the most determined and sanguinary con- 
flicts of man and horse ; and the several lines of infantry, with 
which this attack co-operated, as they emerged from the 
woods and swung across the plain, headed directly for the 
troops of the same old state over whose head floated the well- 
known trefoil of the Second Corps. In brigade line they 
awaited the attack. It came, and with their comrades of the 
east and west they rent the clouds with their shouts of victory 
as the decimated lines disappeared in the smoke of the con- 
flict, and the battle of Gettysburg was over. 

At the headquarters of the army — of corps, division and 
brigade — were the men born on the soil of our state. In every 
grade, as well as at every point, Pennsylvania soldiers were in 
the forefront, and when we have completed the work in hand, 
and the memory of men in the ranks have been rendered im- 
mortal to the full extent of our ability, can we not, will we not, 
all unite in efl'orts to place 

"Under the dome of the Union sky 
The American soldiers' temple of fame 

in a most prominent place upon this field a just tribute to the 
valor, ability and devotion to duty of that glorious son of 
Pennsylvania whose name is so indelibly associated with 
Gettysburg and with the Army of the Potomac wherever it 
fought? Until George Gordon Meade has a fitting monument 
upon this battle ground Pennsylvania will not have entirely 
performed her duty. 

Pardon this digression. I have not attempted to picture or 
describe the battle of Gettysburg. I disclaim any such inten- 
tion. My object has been to present with the monuments 
which rise at every point of the field brief reasons for their be- 
ing, and to assure you that each one occupies the position it 
is entitled to through the valor of the men who followed the 
flag. Wherever may be seen the bronze coat-of-arms of the 
state, there stood and fought at one period or another in the 
desperate struggle the command represented by the memorial, 
and the soil has been rendered sacred by the patriotic blood 
there expended. In honor of the service rendered have these 
enduring tablets been erected. It is a fit and just tribute. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 13 

The armies have long since struck their tents and silently 
merged with the masses in every part of the nation. The 
fields upon which they struggled gleam to-day with the glory 
of peace, and death no longer gathers the rich harvest which 
springs from their fruitful soil. Many have ended life's battle 
since then, and the lines are fading away swiftly before the 
ravages of time and disease. They stand but in anticipation 
of a speedy reunion with those file-leaders who have crossed 
the dark ri^ver, and with whom we hope to again fall into ranks 
in the great hereafter. Let the gratitude of the nation con- 
tinue to go out toward these men. It should be proportioned 
to the benefit received, as well as the purity of intention which 
imparted the benefits. 

Predicted as an inevitable conflict, the war came, and Avas 
fought to the bitter end. The logic of events clearly proves 
it to have been an epoch in the nation's life, which, under l^i- 
vine Providence, was to result in either liberty to all or death 
to the nation. The result could not have been otherwise. It 
was a tribute to the splendid civilization of the American 
people, which, by the efforts of a century, had developed the 
country, educated the masses, created a vast internal com- 
merce, all culminating in placing the nation upon a plane of 
greatness never before reached by any government. Througli 
the future gleam the possibilities, which, may we not claim, 
will mantle the earth with such achievements as will make 
this the undisputed, the eternal hope of liberty. 

We have learned the true value of nationality. Like our 
own mountain ranges, we will recognize the difl:erent peaks as 
they rise in various altitudes and claim specific names, the 
whole forming an indivisible body conspicuous in its greatness 
as a whole. These monuments represent this great national- 
ity, and will stand forever as testimonials of a state and na- 
tion'*s gratitude to the valor of its citizen soldiers. 

Let the morning and evening sun, which shall greet, gild 
and linger on their sides, and play upon them from base to cap- 
stone, symbolize the showering benedictions of their country- 
men, which will stream from age to age in honor of the fame 
and memory of the dead and living they represent. 

The duties of your Commission have almost ended. I dare 
claim for it a single purpose to perform them fairly, honestly 
and impartially. One of its members. Major Samuel Harper, 



14 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

passed away ere the work was completed. He was a true sol- 
dier, a firm patriot, earnest in his devotion to his work, which, 
upon this field, must ever be recognized. 

To the people of this great state we now present the result 
of our labors in these memorial tablets. Each one tells its 
own truthful story, and will to future generations. It is a 
record as complete as it is accurate. As they stand here over- 
looking these scenes, telling of the silent battalions represent- 
ed, with yonder green mounds, the perpetual reminder of 
heroic immolation, may we not hope in all the land, every- 
where, loyal devotion to country and flag shall prevail with 
a new-born intensity, capable of any sacrifice, and all may 
realize fully as was said of old, "It is the high reward of those 
who have risked their lives in a just and necessary war, that 
their names are sweet in the moutlis of men, and every age 
shall know their actions." 



ACCEPTANCE ON BEHALF OF THE COMMONWEALTH. 



Governor of the Commonwealth, Hon. James A. Beaver. 



COMEADES AND FELLOW-CITIZENS : No official duty 
which has devolved upon the present executive of Penn- 
sylvania is more significant, and at the same time more 
pleasant, than the one which he now performs on behalf of 
our goodly Commonwealth. Granite and bronze are not neces- 
sary, nor can they, in a large sense, perpetuate the memory 
of the men dead and the heroism of those living, who stood 
for the Constitution and the enforcement of the laws, upon 
this field. They have a significance and value, however, as 
shoAving the appreciation of a grateful Commonwealth for the 
service of her sons in defending her soil and in aiding to per- 
petuate the unity of the government of which she is a consti- 
tuent part. On every portion of this historic battlefield Penn- 
sylvania acted a prominent part. Her sons, as was meet. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 15 

were the heroes of the field. Meade commanded the army, 
Keynolds fell in the fore-front of battle in the first day's fight, 
and Hancock directed the details of preparations for tlie 
heroic and stubborn resistence which was made to the de- 
termined assaults of the enemy, upon the second and third 
days. Pennsylvaniaus were prominent in the First Corps at 
the opening of the battle on the first day; Pennsylvania regi- 
ments played a prominent part in Sickles' gallant forward 
movement; Pennsylvaniaus predominated in the First Divi- 
sion of the Second Corps and constituted the Third Division 
of the Fifth Corps, which made the impetuous assault through 
the "wheatfield" and the ^'devil's den" upon Hood's Division, 
in its determined and well-directed efl'orts to turn Sickles' 
left flank, on the second day, and Pennsylvania received the 
shock of Pickett's heroic, but ill-fated and foolish charge, on 
the third day. Pennsylvania batteries occupied vital points 
in our defensive line, and Pennsylvania cavalry was conspi- 
cuous under a gallant Pennsylvanian in their brilliant opera- 
tions upon our right flank and rear. In every ofl'ensive move- 
ment made by the Army of the Potomac during the Gettys- 
burg campaign; in every defensive position taken by it; in 
brilliant skirmish, in gallant assault, in heroic fighting or in 
stubborn resistance, Pennsylvania was found everywhere do- 
ing her duty and bearing her full share of the heat and bur- 
dens of the day. We do not claim that she did more than 
her duty or that she performed more than her share of the 
work to be done. Without the assistance and co-operation 
of her sister states she would have been utterly powerless to 
repel the invasion of her soil. We make no invidious distinc- 
tions in emphasizing Pennsylvania's share in the campaign 
which found its climax within her borders. This is Pennsyl- 
vania Day, and we simply emphasize her part in the work 
here done without in any way detracting from or minimizing 
the part taken by others or the credit due to them therefore. 
The description of the details of Pennsylvania's share in the 
glorj^ of this field belongs to the historians of the occasion 
and I shall not trespass upon their theme or sphere in this di- 
rection. The Commonwealth does well in recognizing the de- 
votion of her sons. She has been none too liberal in her gifts 
for such a purpose. 



16 Pennsylvania at Gettys'burg. 

In accepting the results of the work of the Commission ap- 
pointed to supervise the erection of the memorials of the pa- 
triotism of Pennsylvania's sons, it may be well to say a word 
as to the manner in which the work has been done and of its 
characteristic features. Charged with a delicate, a difficult 
and responsible duty, it is not too much to say that the Penn- 
sylvania Gettysburg Memorial Commissioners, so far as the 
results of their work are apparent upon this field, have dis- 
charged their duty in a manner alike creditable to them and 
acceptable to the people of the Commonwealth. Few who 
have not given thought to the subject can realize the difficul- 
ties under which they labored, or appreciate the value of the 
work which they have done. This work was characterized, 
first, by a broad intelligence. The position occupied by each 
of the eighty-six Pennsylvania organizations participating in 
the battle of Gettysburg was to be carefully studied and defi- 
nitely ascertained in order to determine the location of their 
several monuments. The part taken by each organization 
must be thoroughly understood in order that the truth of his- 
tory, and nothing but the truth, should be disf>layed upon 
these memorials. The materials to be used; the design to be 
adopted; the details of construction and the perpetuity of re- 
sults, were all to be considered and right conclusions in regard 
thereto reached. Those who have carefully and critically fol- 
lowed the work of the Commission will, I am sure, join with 
me in commending the rare intelligence which has marked its 
labors in all these respects. 

The work of the Commission has been characterized, more- 
over by unquestioned fidelity. Charged with the execution of 
a law, with the framing and passage of which its members had 
little to do ; with the expenditure of a sum exceeding an eighth 
of a million doUai'S, in such a way as to secure full and satis- 
factory returns to each regimental organization, and to the 
Commonwealth which placed her funds in their hands; with 
the preservation of the truth of history, and, at the same time, 
with the vindication of the honor and reputation of Pennsyl- 
vania organizations, where history had failed to do them jus- 
tice; with determining the truth as to conflicting claims for 
position, and antagonistic interests on the part of contractors 
and committees representing the various organizations who 
contracted with them, it will be seen that the work of the Com- 
mission required rare discretion and ability. In all these re- 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 17 

spects, and others which cannot be mentioned for want of 
time, the Commission has, in all its work, fully met the de- 
mands made upon it, and can confidently point to the results 
which confront us on every hand for the evidence of the fidelity 
with Avhich these demands have been met. 

The Commonwealth has in every instance had a full return 
for the money which was appropriated for these memorials, 
and in most of them has received a large percentage of in- 
crease from the voluntary contributions of the organizations 
themselves. So it is safe to say that no state, when the work 
of the Commission shall be finished, will present more sub- 
stantial, more enduring and more tasteful memorials of the 
devotion of her sons, than Pennsylvania. 

The zeal manifested by each and everj^ member of the Com- 
mission is also a characteristic of its work. Voluntarily ac- 
cepting a position to which no pecuniary compensation of any 
kind was attached, the gentlemen who composed the Commis- 
sion gave themselves unreservedly to the work before them. 
They have spared no effort; have stopped at no sacrifice of 
time or convenience; have assisted in the organization of regi- 
mental committees; have furnished designs for the adoption 
of such representatives, and have stimulated their efl'orts to 
secure better and more enduring results than could have been 
obtained through the expenditure of the appropriation made 
by legislative authority alone. Such energy and zeal are 
worthy of commendation, and sliould be here and now record- 
ed and acknowledged. There has been much patient forbear- 
ance with, and sometimes a judicious yielding to, the demands 
of zealous and enthusiastic regimental organizations. Such 
demands were the evidence of a proper interest in the truth of 
history and in the faithful acknowledgment of the contribu- 
tions which have been made by those who were thus repre- 
sented and the results which history records. They were 
found, on careful examination, in many instances, to be cor- 
rect, and official records have been thereby corrected through 
the careful and persistent efl'orts of the Commissioners. 

Without dwelling upon other characteristics of the work of 
the Commission, which will suggest themselves to the thought- 
ful observer, it is safe to say, finally, that success has crowned 
its work in an eminent degree. The organizations for whose 
benefit provision was made by the legislature have not, in all 



18 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

instances, availed themselves of it. Some memorials have not 
yet been erected. Designs for others have not yet been adopt- 
ed, and to this extent the work of the Commission is not fin- 
ished; but so far as the memorials which surround us are the 
evidence of the work of the Commission, we join to-day, as the 
survivors of those w^hose memory is thereby enshrined, in pro- 
nouncing their work an unqualified success. As already in- 
timated, the work is not finished. The distinctively Pennsyl- 
vania organization in which all Pennsylvania, whether con- 
nected with it or not, takes pride, and which played such a dis- 
tinguished part upon this field — the Pennsylvania Eeserve 
Corps — has not yet erected its memorial. It is the desire of 
the various regimental organizations composing that corps to 
erect a common memorial. In this desire I personally cor- 
dially sympathize, and will be glad to co-operate. The origi- 
nal provisions made for the erection of our memorials did not 
seem to authorize such a use of the funds appropriated, and an 
unfortunate misunderstanding as to the bill passed by the last 
legislature in relation thereto, which gave rise to certain con- 
stitutional and other difficulties, made necessary its disap- 
proval. I wish, however, here and now, as a Pennsylvanian, 
proud of the forethought which organized the Pennsylvania 
Eeserve Corps, and of the record which it made for Pennsyl- 
vania, to say that, so far as I am able to do so, officially or per- 
sonally, I wish to co-operate Avith the survivors of that distin- 
guished body of Pennsylvania soldiers in carrying out their 
wishes. The Vermont Brigade has its magnificent Corinthian 
column, to be surmounted finally by a statue of Stannard ; New 
York's Excelsior Brigade has its distinctive monument; the 
New Jersey Brigade, distinguished alike for its brave deeds 
and the bravery of its great commander, perpetuates its mem- 
ory and that of Kearny at the same time, by a monument which 
combines the memorials of its several regiments; so I would 
say, speaking for myself, let the Pennsylvania Eeserve Corps 
perpetuate the memory of the part which it took upon this 
field and elsewhere throughout our great struggle for the pres- 
ervation of the Union, in a memorial building which shall be 
distinctive and appropriate. Consultation and cordial co- 
operation can bring this about without difficulty, and in har- 
mony with the requirements of our state constitution and the 
work of the Commission appointed in accordance with the pro- 
visions of the act of assembly relating thereto. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 19 

It only remains for me, gentlemen of the Commission, to ac- 
cept at your hands, as the representative of the Common- 
wealth, the work which you have here and now transferred to 
me. Pennsylvania is satisfied with what you have done! Penn- 
sylvania congratulates herself upon the success of your ef- 
forts. I accept on her behalf these memorials erected under 
your supervision and control, and in doing so I beg to thank 
you in her name for the intelligence, tlie fidelity, the zeal and 
the patience which have crowned your work. 



20 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

POEM. 
GETTYSBURG. 



Isaac R. Pennypackeu^ Esq. 



'Twas on the time when Lee 
Below Potomac's swollen ford. 
Had beaten down the broken sword 

Of his baffled enemy. 

His long line lengthened faster 

Than the days of June, 
O'er valleys varied, mountains vaster. 

By forced marches night and noon ; 
Any morn might bring him down 
Captor of the proudest town ; 
Any one of cities three 
At noon or night might prostrate be. 

Then to Meade was the sword of the north 
Held hiltward for proof of its worth ; 
O'er the vastness of masses of men 

All the glorious banners of war. 
All the battle-flags floated again ; 

All the bugles blew blithely once more. 
Sounding the stately advance ; 

Village doorways framed faces of awe 
At the trains of artillery pressed 

On earth's reverberant breast. 
And the sun sought the zenith, and saw 

All the splendors of war at a glance. 

How soon the first fierce rain of death 

In big drops dancing on the trees 
Withers the foliage I At a breath. 

Hot as the blasts that dried old seas 
The clover falls like drops of blood 
From mortal hurts, and stains the sod ; 
The wheat is clipped, but the ripe grain 
Here long ungarnered shall remain. 
And many who at the drum's long roll 

Sprang to the charge and swelled the cheer, 
And set their flags high on the knoll. 

Ne'er knew how went the fight fought here ; 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 21 

For them a knell tumultous shells 
Shook from the consecrated bells, 
As here they formed that silent rank. 
Whose glorious star at twilight sank. 

And night, which lulls all discoj'ds — night, 

Which stills the folds and vocal wood. 
And, with the touch of finger light. 

Quiet the pink-lipped brook's wild mood. 
Which sends the wind to seek the latch. 
And seals young eyes while mothers watch — 
Night stays the battle, but with day 
Their lives, themselves, foes hurl away. 
Where the thousands fell, but did not yield. 
Shall be to-morrow's battlefield. 
E'er dying died or dead were cold 
New hosts pressed on the lines to hold. 
And held them — hold them now ii'. sleep 

While stars and sentinels go round. 
And war-worn chargers shrink like sheep 

Beside their riders on the ground. 
All through the night — all through the north 
Speed doubtful tidings back and forth. 
Through north and south, from dusk till day, 
A sundered people diverse pray. 

So gradual sink the deliberate stars. 

The sun doth run the laggards down. 
As sleep's still meadows burst the bars, 

And floods with light the steepled town. 
Blow ! bugles of the cavalry, blow ! 
Forward the infantry, row on row! 
While every battery leaps with life. 
And swells with tongueless throats the strife ! 

Where grappled foes, one flushed with joy 
From triumphs fresh, and come to destroy. 
And one by blows but tempered fit 
To keep the torch of freedom lit. 
The battle-dust from heroes' feet, 
Brief hiding rally and last retreat. 
By the free sunlight touched became 
A golden pillar of lambent flame. 

Glorified was this field, its white 
Faces of victors and of slain. 

And these and Round Top's luminous height 
That glory flashed afar again 

Around the world for all to see 

One nation and one wholly free. 



22 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

Aud brauded deep with flaming sword 
Its primal compact's binding word. 
'Neath Freedom's dome that light divine. 
Borne here from dark defiles of Time, 
From here upblazed a beacon sign 
To all the oppressed of every clime ; 
And dulled eyes glistened ; hope upspruug 
Where'er ills old when man was young 

Against awaking thought were set, 
Where power its tribute wrongly wrung, 

Or moved on pathways rank even yet 
With martyr's blood, where'er a tongue 

Hath words to show, as serf, slave, thrall. 

How great man's power! how deep man's fall. 

Ijong will be felt, though hurled in vain. 

The shock that shook the northern gate. 
Long heard the shots that dashed amain. 

But flattened on the rock of fate. 
Where Lee still strove, but failed to break 
The barrier down, or fissure make. 
And never grasped by force the prize 
Deferred by years of compromise 
Long will men keep the memory bright 
Of deeds done here ; how flashed the blade 
Of Hancock from South Mountain's shade 
To the sheer heights of unfading light ! 
That martial morn o'er yonder ridge 
Reynolds last rode face towards the foe. 
And onward rides through history so; 

For Meade, even as for Joshua, suns 
The unmindful gulf of Time abridge. 
While still its depths fling back his guns' 

Victorious echoes. The same wise power 
Which starts the currents from ocean's heart. 

And hurls the tides at their due hour. 
Or holds them with a force unspent. 

Made him like master, in each part. 
O'er all his mighty instrument. 

Chief leaders of the battle great ! 

Three sons of one proud mother state ! 
These epoch stones she sets stand fast. 

As on her field her regiments stood ; 
Their volleys rang the first and last ; 
They kept with Webb the target-wood. 
And there for all turned on its ti'ack 
The wild gulf stream of treason back ; 
Or on the stubborn hill-sides trod 
Out harvests sown not on the clod ; 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 23 

Hearts shall beat high iu days growu tame. 
At thoughts of thoni and their proud fame, 

And watching Pickett's gallant bund 
Melt like lost snow-flakes iu the deep. 

Pity shall grow throughout the land. 
And near apace with joy shall keep. 

Bafiled, beaten, back to the ford. 

His own, at the last the broken sword, 

Rode the invader. On his breast 

His head with sorrow low was pressed ; 

On his horse's tangled mane 

Loosely hung the bridle rein. 

At Gettysburg his valient host 

The last hope of their cause had lost ; 

In vain their daring and endeavor. 

It was buried there forever ; 

Right well he knew the way he fled 

Straight to the last surrender led . 

So ended Lee's anabasis. 
And all he hoped had come to this ; — 
As well for master as the di-iven 
That not by him was victory given . 
So Right emboldened and made known 
Hurled the whole troop of Error down. 
And here held fast an heritage ; 

So on that course may all hold fast 
'Till no man takes an hundred wage. 

And each one has his own at last, 

'Till the last caravan of the bound. 

Driven towards some Bornuese market place. 
Happily shall feel their bonds unwound, 

And steps of woe in joy retrace. 

In the cities of the north 

The brazen cannon belched forth 

For the defeat of Lee; 
When the smoke from this field 
Unfolded , Lo ! fixed on the shield 
Each wandering star was revealed. 
And the steeple bells pealed 

Inland to the further sea ; 
In the villages flags waved 

For Meade's victory, — 
A thousand, thousand flags waved 

For the souls' to be free. 
For the union saved. 

For the Union still to be. 



24 Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 



THE FIRST DAY— JULY 1, 1863. 



Brevet Captain Joseph G. Rosengarten. 



PENNSYLVANIA DAY marks the completiou of the offi- 
cial relations of the State of Pennsylvania with the 
battlefield of Gettysburg. Every position occupied by 
Pennsylvania soldiers through the scenes and events of that 
great battle is now marked by a memorial of the regiment or 
battery that took part in it. Thanks to the generosity of the 
State, the wise choice of its Governor, the industry and care 
of the Commissioners appointed by him, the task is done, and 
well done. Now, in final conclusion of all this labor, of the 
years spent in securing the ground, in preserving its natural 
features, iu making a lasting record on the spot of the force 
that occupied each part of the long line of battle, we are gath- 
ered here to renew the memories that made Gettysburg dear 
to every soldier who fought here. The field of Gettysburg is 
within sight; the vantage ground gained by the first day's 
battle was the position on which the battles of the succeeding 
days were fought, and the victory finally won. The campaign of 
Gettysburg covered the whole territory over which her great 
contending armies moved. From the fords of the Rappahan- 
nock and the passes of the Blue mountains, through Virginia, 
across the Potomac, through Maryland, into Pennsylvania, up 
the Cumberland valley, and as far east almost as the Susque- 
hanna river, the strategic operations of the Army of Northern 
Virginia, under General Lee, and of the Army of the Potomac, 
under General Hooker and General Meade, will deserve care- 
ful study. The Union cavalry won especial distinction as it 
masked the movements of the Union army, and forced the Con- 
federate leader to disclose his well-conceived and well-matured 
plans. When Meade took command he unfolded his army like 
a fan, keeping it always between the invading enemy and the 
great cities threatened by Lee.* 

•Newhall's address before the Sixth Pennsylvania Cavalry. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 25 

First til en let us pay tribute to the memory of General 
Meade, the commander on whom rested the responsibility, 
made the weightier by the unexpected order which put him at 
the head of the Army of the Potomac, only three days before 
the great battle which practically was the crisis of the Avar. 
His generalship was of the highest order, and his strategic and 
practical operations the best, yet one other element of his suc- 
cess has been too little regarded. His great moral and x>er- 
sonal excellence was universallj^ felt and recognized through- 
out the array, and when he was put at its head, that great body 
was at once lifted on a higher plane and became thoroughly in- 
spired with a loft)^ purpose, and an earnest will to do all that 
should be asked. All joined in a silent thanksgiving that Gen- 
eral Meade was their commander, for by that mental revela- 
tion which permeates great masses of disciplined men, his fit- 
ness as a leader was universally recognized, and Gettysburg yet 
needs a final memorial of General Meade to mark his great 
victory. 

Next in our retrospect let us pay tribute to General Key- 
nolds. The advance, the left wing of the army, was given to 
General Keynolds, Meade's closest friend. Unlike as were the 
two in mental and moral qualities, in physical appearance and 
military bent, each perfectly supplemented the other. When 
he fell his place was given to General Hancock, again totally 
unlike either Meade or Eeynolds, a soldier of the highest ex- 
cellence, who on this as in so many other trying positions, did 
his part in winning the victory. One other name must always 
be honored in speaking of the First Day at Gettysburg. — John 
Buford, gallant soldier, typical cavalry leader, fearless figliter, 
for with him rests the special distinction of first clearly for- 
seeing that Gettysburg was to be the scene of a great battle; 
prepared for the Confederate onset, he shortly resisted an 
overwhelming force, called confidently on Reynolds, his imme- 
diate commander, for the support that promptly came to his 
help, notified Meade of Reynolds' death, advised him of the 
need of some one to command, and in every way helped to save 
the field and win the victory, even at the price of the First 
Day's Battle. 

Standing here, no words are needed to show the strategic 
importance of Gettysburg, the reasons for the tactical move- 
ments, and the limits which the nature of the country imposed 



26 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

on Meade and his army, alike in coming to Gettysburg as they 
did in holding and defending their line, and in gathering the 
fruits of the victory. The hills and mountains that hid the ad- 
vancing enemy as he debouched from the gaps beyond, also 
sheltered his shattered forces as they withdrew to the Poto- 
mac, and found safety in retreat across its waters to Virginia. 
The vigor with which General Meade concentrated his army at 
Gettysburg, the ability with which he won the victory, show 
that it is not for want of will that his pursuit was not swift 
enough to turn the defeat into a rout. The central facts and 
the figures of the first days' battle, however, are all that can 
now be briefly told. Assigned (for the second time) on the 
morning of June 30, to the command of the left wing, General 
Reynolds led his own Corps, the First, followed by the 
Eleventh, close after Buford's Cavalry Division, to the front. 
He sent Buford through Gettysburg to find the enemy. The 
old rule had been for the cavalry to keep near the infantry, but 
Buford Avent boldly forward, knowing that wherever Reynolds 
sent him he was sure to be supported, and that in falling back, 
if he must do so, he would meet the infantry on its way out. 
It was Buford who first called attention to the concentration 
of roads at Gettysburg that gave it such strategic importance. 
It was his energ}' in pushing forward, his foresight in thrust- 
ing his force out, that invited, that almost compelled the Con- 
federate army to come to Gettysburg, and thus brought the 
battle on here. At daylight on the morning of July 1 his ad- 
vance picket saw the enemy approaching on the Chambersburg 
road, and at 5.30 the first fire came from our side, as the dis- 
mounted cavahymen took refuge behind the abutments of the 
bridge over Willoughby run. Falling back to higher ground, 
the advance of the leading division, Heth's, of Hill's Corps, 
was seriously disputed. Devin's Brigade, holding the line 
from the Chambersburg road to the right, Gamble's that to 
the left, Buford maintaining a firm front with his few guns 
and his thin line of cavalry. General Reynolds came promptly 
to the front, had a brief, but significant, interview with Bu- 
ford, saw that the time had come to put in his infantry, 
promptly accepted the responsibility of engaging the enemy, 
returned to meet the leading division, Wadsworth's, led it to 
the front, relieved Buford's hard-pressed lines, ordered up the 
rest of his command, hurried up the troops, by brigades, and 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 27 

even by single regiments, pnt them into his lengthening lines, 
placed the batteries in position as they arrived, and put Buford 
in support of his horse batteries in reserve and on the flanks. 
Thus rapidly developing his line, the enemy, advancing in 
largely superior numbers, was held at bay, while the First 
Corps was put in position. The Fifty-sixth Pennsylvania, 
under Colonel Hofmann, opened the infantry fire at 9.30 a. m. 
The Iron Brigade was put forward by Eeynolds himself, and 
then, returning to meet his advancing division, Eeynolds fell 
by the hands of a sharpshooter on the spot now marked by a 
memorial shaft. Almost at the same time two Conferedate 
regiments, the bulk of Archer's Brigade, with General Archer 
himself, were captured and marched to the rear, and as the 
dead body of General Eeynolds was carried off the field, 
the captured Confederates manifested their marked respect 
for the fallen TTnion general. At the outset, Wadsworth's Di- 
vision, with Hall's battery, were all the infantry between Get- 
tysburg and two strong Confederate divisions, with large rein- 
forcements coming in on the Carlisle road. Eobinson's Divi 
sion arrived in time to support tlie hard-pressed little force on 
the right. Doubleday's Division came in on the left, Stone's 
Biigade going into position beyond Seminary Eidge, Biddle's 
Brigade on the extreme left. There it maintained its position, 
and from 11 a. m. until 4 p. m. fought and manoeuvred until 
it, too, was forced to retire. About 1 p. m. the leading divi- 
sion of the Eleventh Corps took up its place on the right, fol- 
lowed by a second division, with the batteries on their right 
and left, another division and a battery being placed in reserve 
on Cemetery Hill. 

Heth's Division of Hill's Corps was the advance of the Con- 
federate force, and it was promptly followed by Pender, while 
Eodes' and Early's Divisions of Ewell's Corps came on our ex- 
treme right, Eodes, about 2 p. m.. Early, about 8 p. m., meeting 
at the time and place above designated, after long marches 
from different points, with wonderful accuracy. The First 
and the Eleventh Corps of our army each numbered little 
more than some of the Confederate Divisions. General Dou- 
bleday points out that the Confederate army had but three 
corps, while the Union army had seven, so that each of their 
corps represented about a third, each of ours a seventh of tlie 
whole force, and the same proportion extended to divisions, 



28 Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 

brigades, and even regiments. General Doubledaj^ who suc- 
ceeded Eeynolds in command of the First Corps, says it took 
8,200 men into action. General Heth says his division num- 
bered some 7,000 muskets. The Compte de Paris says the 
Union forces numbered about 11,500 against more than 30,000 
Confederate troops. Colonel Chapman Biddle, in his exhaus- 
tive study of the irst day's battle, puts the Confederate force 
at over 30,000; th- Union force was about 14,000, 8,200 in the 
First Corps, barely 1,000 in the Eleventh engaged. In spite 
of such odds and such inequality, the first day's battle was a 
succession of well-contested struggles at each point. Buford's 
cavalry held their position against Heth's Division from 8 to 
10 a. m., relieved by the First Corps, that in turn held its own 
against Heth and Pei.der until nearly 1 p. m. About that hour 
the Eleventh Corps on the right fought Eodes' and Early's Di- 
visions, and even after, it fell back, the First Corps still stoutly 
resisted until past 4 o'clock, when, outflanked by the heavy 
force of the Confederste army, it was obliged to retreat to 
Cemetery Hill. What night have been the issue if Eeynolds 
had been spared can only be matter of conjecture, yet it must 
be borne in mind that on more than one hardly-contested field 
his presence had converted apparent defeat into victory. Of 
him it might well be said, he never can be deathless till he die. 
It is the dead win battles. Be that as it may, his place was 
finally taken by Hancock, v.ho arrived on Cemetery Hill be- 
tween 3 and 4 p. m., and promptly put the forces in hand into 
position — sent Wardsworth's Division and a battery to Gulp's 
Hill, on the right, with fresh troops, and extended the lines 
to the left at Eound Top. 

The divisions of the Twelfth Corps, under Geary and Wil- 
liams, took positions on the extreme left and right respective- 
ly, and Buford made a strong cavalry demonstration on both 
flanks. The timely arrival of Stannard's Vermont Brigade 
added fresh strength to the troops. Leaving Washington on 
the 25th at noon, after an exhausting march of seven days, 
rain falling every day, under orders to report to General Eey- 
nolds, it reached Gettysburg late on the afternoon of the 1st 
of July, and the tired troops were placed in position in column 
by regiments, connecting with the divisions of the Third Corps 
just hurried to the front, and in rear of the line of battle of tlie 
First and Eleventh Corps on Cemetery Hill. Thus the Con- 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 29 

federate army, iu spite of its successes, saw the Union army 
strong in its new position, and while General Lee conditionally 
ordered an advance, his corps and division generals were con- 
tent to prepare for it for the next day. By midnight of the 
1st the bulk of the Army of the Potomac was in its place, and 
General Meade himself followed soon after, and at once sur- 
veyed the field and prepared to hold it. Buford had sent word 
that here was the place to fight a battle, Eeynolds had con- 
firmed it, Hancock seconded it, Warren, too, found that they 
were right, and General Meade promptly gave orders for the 
concentration of his army there. The first day's battle had 
secured the position on which the succeeding day's battles 
were to be fought and won. It was thus on Pennsylvania soil 
that the great and decisive battle was fought, with a Pennsyl- 
vanian, Meade, at the head of the army, with another Pennsyl- 
vanian, Eeynolds, leading the advance, and falling at the very 
fore-front at the outset. It was another Pennsylvanian, Han- 
cock, who took his place and secured the line on which he him- 
self fell desperatel}^ wounded later on; it was a Pennsylvania 
regiment, the Fifty-sixth, that opened the infantry fight on the 
1st of July. In the First Corps there were twelve Pennsyl- 
vania organizations; in the Eleventh Corps there were five, 
and eighteen more were in the Twelfth and Third Corps, whose 
timely presence counted for so much in the closing scenes of 
that eventful day at Gettysburg. 

Pennsylvania Day, by its very name, recalls their presence 
and their services. But the forces that took part in the first 
day's battle included men of New York, Maine, Massachusetts, 
Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, Ohio, Connecticut, New Jersey, 
and the legular army, so that no state lines, no local history, 
limits the interest of the first day. Pennsylvania has always 
recognized its duty as guardian of the field of Gettysburg, and 
while it honors its own sons who fought and fell here, it honors 
equally the memory of those of other states, for all alike 
fought in defense of the Union. The State of Pennsylvania 
invites its citizens to meet here again to consecrate themselves 
in the presence of all these memorials, testifying better than 
any words can tell, the loyalty of its sons to the Union, and 
the tender regard piously cherished for all who died that the 
Union might live. The years that have passed since the battle 
are full of great events, but much of their importance is due 



30 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

to the issue of that contest, and that issue is in turn largely 
due to the events of the first day and its influence on the re- 
sult. Eeynolds set the example, sealing a glorious life by a 
glorious death, and his men were worthy of him. No more 
pregnant tribute was ever paid than that of General Meade, 
when, in his dispatch of July 4, he said: '*We have been en- 
gaged with the enemy for three days — July 1, 2 and 3. On the 
1st our forces met and we lost Eeynolds." Thus he puts the 
loss of Reynolds by itself, showing that even after the suc- 
cesses of the second and third days, the death of Reynolds was 
a heavy price to pay for the final result of a crowning victory. 
On another occasion he said : "Reynolds was the noblest, as 
well as the bravest, gentleman in the army. When he fell at 
Gettysburg the army lost its right arm." That Reynolds was 
appreciated as highly by his own soldiers as by the command- 
ing general is testified by the fact that here his old First Corps 
erected the heroic bronze statue that stands in the National 
Cemetery. Th.e State of Pennsylvania has marked, by a suit- 
able memorial, the spot on which Reynolds fell, and near it are 
the memorials of the organizations that fought on the first day 
in front on the lines he formed. 

The death of Reynolds led General Meade to do an act which 
exhibited his best qualities as a commander. Himself but 
three days at the head of the army, he selected General Han- 
cock, who had but three days before left his division to take 
command of a corps, and sent him to assume the command of 
the left wing in succession to Reynolds. The result fully jus- 
tified the choice, but to make it required moral courage, in- 
sight into character, and rapidity of decision. Hancock on 
his arrival at the front did just the work which was needed — 
rallying the troops, addressing and encouraging them, assign- 
ing positions to those already there, hastening into line the 
fresh troops as they arrived. Anticipating Lee's order to 
Ewell, he sent Wadsworth to occupy Gulp's Hill, and having 
put all in order, rei^orted to General Meade that he could hold 
the position till nightfall, and that here was the place to fight 
our battle, and received a prompt reply that the army was 
ordered there. Thus Buford and Reynolds and Hancock all 
united in the work that made the first day's battle so mo- 
mentous.* 

♦General F. A. Walker in Battles and Leaders of the Civil War. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. ill 

It was not a surprise nor an accident— it was the opening- 
engagement between two contending armies. Over the Army 
of Northern Virginia General Lee exercised supreme command 
for more than a year, during which he had won four great 
victories. Over the Army of the Potomac, General Meade had 
been in command for three days, and he was hampered by 
orders from Washington, and the necessity of conforming to 
them. He was looking for the enemy, his main point, as he 
said to Halleck, "to find and fight the enemy." He sent Eey- 
nolds on that errand, and Reynolds in turn despatched Buford 
with his cavalry to be the eyes of the army. He found them, 
and with his clear prescience saw the opportunity and the oc- 
casion, and quickly seized it, and Reynolds in turn helped to 
bring Lee's forces out of their mountain shelter, to hold them, 
and, in conformity with Meade's orders, bettered in their 
understanding by Buford and Reynolds of what was before 
them — an enemy rapidly concentrating at a position of great 
importance — they held on for the whole of that first day, while 
General Meade was enabled to prepare for that oifensive de- 
fense which he had at the outset determined on. 

Even as great a military writer as Lord Wolseley speaks of 
the first day as a surprise to the Confederate army, and not to 
the Union army, but he is not borne out by the facts. General 
Lee says, in his report, that his whole force was ordered to 
concentrate at Gettysburg. Two divisions of General Hill's 
Corps were sent to Gettysburg by the Chambersburg road, and 
the third division was held in reserve. The two divisions of 
Ewell's Corps, Early's and Rodes', were ordered there, and 
coming, one from York, the other from Carlisle, their concen 
tration was effected with admirable precision. Of the Union 
Army, Buford's Division of cavalry was sent through Gettys- 
burg on the 30th of June to observe the enemy, and his move- 
ments were closely watched and fully reported both to Rey- 
nolds and Meade. Reynolds put his own corps, the First, into 
action on the morning of the first day, and under his orders 
the Eleventh Corps came up to its support, while the Third 
Corps, later on, followed, and by nightfall, Avith the Twelfth 
Corps, and the Vermont Brigade, were on the ground and in 
position. Surely, then, there was no surprise in the battle, 
and it was fought just at the time and place where it best ef- 
fected its object. True up to the 1st of July, the Confederate 



32 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

Army had met little but militia, aud the people of Pennsyl- 
vania might well have asked: 

Why have they dared to march so many miles upon her peaceful bosom, 
frighting her pale-faced villages with war, and ostentation of despised 
arms? Richard II., act 2, sc. 3. 

But the end to the invasion came when the Army of the Po- 
tomac and the Army of Northern Virginia met in front of Get- 
tysburg. It may be true that some of the Confederates ex- 
pected to encounter only militia, yet the general officers, its 
leaders, knew that General Meade was looking for the enemy 
and for a place to fight, aud both were found at Gettysburg. 
There the Army of the Potomac for three days contended for 
the supremacy which finally crowned the long struggle, and 
the issue was largely due to the sturdy valor of the small body 
of troops that on the first day withstood double their number. 
Both Meade and Lee were manoeuvering for positions on which 
to deliver battle; General Lee, to gather the fruits of his inva- 
sion of the north, to mass his forces before the Union Army 
could be concentrated, and, fighting it in detail, to win a vic- 
tory which should enable him to exact terms that would give 
a new lease of life to the Confederacy ; General Meade, to pro- 
tect Washington and Baltimore, to relieve Harrisburg and 
Philadelphia, and to drive Lee across the Potomac. Buford, 
with his cavalry, the eyes of the army, saw at a glance that 
Gettysburg was the best point for concentration and for a de- 
cisive battle. Eeynolds, its right arm, saw that the time had 
arrived, and, with his corps, struck the first blow, meaning to 
follow it up with the help of the Eleventh and Third Corps. 
Hancock, in turn, seized the position on Cemetery Kidge, and 
by nightfall secured it, so that at the close of the first day, al- 
though the enemy had largely outnumbered our force, yet the 
substantial advantage was ours, for here Lee was brought to 
bay, and the successful battle of the second and third days 
were largely the outcome of that of the first day. 

The hard fighting of the first day is measured by that best 
test, the casualty list, strikingly alike on both sides, in spite 
of the contrast of the numbers engaged. Much of the details 
of this kind will be found in Fox's Book of Kegimental Losses, 
well called Fox's Book of Martyrs, and it deserves close and 
diligent study on this and on the other great battles of the 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 33 

war, for its exhaustive study. The First Corps took into ac- 
tion 8,200 and lost 6,025. The Eleventh Corps, out of 9,197, 
took into action, General Howard says "hardly 6,000," and lost 
3,801. On the Confederate side, in Hill Corps, Heth says he 
took in 7,000 and lost 2,850, and Pender lost 1,690 out of 4,260 
engaged. E well's Corps was 20,000 strong (according to Gen- 
eral Meade's letter to Colonel Benedict), and Eodes' Division, 
out of 6,207, lost 2,853, and Early's, 1,188 out of 5,477. The 
First Corps lost over 70 per cent., the Eleventh Corps over 60 
per cent. Of the First Corps, the Iron Brigade lost 61 per 
cent., 1,153 out of 1,883; the First Division 2,128, and the Sec- 
ond Division 1,686, out of 2,500, w^hile the smallest, the Third 
Division, consisting, with the exception of one New York regi- 
ment, entirely of Pennsylvania regiments, lost 1,748 out of 
2,069, over 80 per cent., and the other divisions were little be- 
hind the same heavy percentage. Biddle's Brigade of the 
Third Division lost 897 out of 1,287, nearly 70 per cent., leav- 
ing only 390, a fragment of a regiment. Stone's Brigade, by 
Colonel Wister's report, went in with 1,300 men and lost 852, 
over 66 per cent. It had but three regiments, the One Hundred 
and Forty-third, One Hundred and Forty-ninth and One Hun- 
dred and Fiftieth Pennsylvania, and no command fought more 
desperately or suffered greater losses. At its head its com- 
mander. Colonel Boy Stone, was wounded and his successor. 
Colonel Langhorne Wister was also wounded. After taking 
position to the right of Biddle's Brigade, and rendering effec- 
tive assistance to Wadsworth's hard-pressed division. Stone's 
little brigade was made the point of a concentrated attack in 
force by double its number; against its three small regiments 
were brought six regiments the average strength being over 
five hundred each. 

The Confederate reports lay stress on the severity of their 
losses. General Heth speaks of losing 2,700 out of 7,000, nearly 
40 per cent., in twenty-five minutes. Colonel Hopkins of the 
Forty-fifth North Carolina, says that regiment suffered more 
than it ever did before in the same time. The Second North 
Carolina reported a loss of two-thirds. The Twenty-sixth 
North Carolina lost over 76 per cent., Pender's old brigade 
over 48 per cent., Daniel's over 43 per cent., and the regimental 
losses in both Hill's and Ewell's Corps were very heavy. On 



34 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

our side, of the losses of the Pennsylvania regiments, the fol- 
lowing were in the first Corps: 

Eleventh Pennsylvania lost 117 out of 292, or 40 per cent. 

Fifty-sixth Pennsylvania lost 183 out of 252, or 50 per cent. 

Eighty-eighth Pennsylvania lost 106 out of 296, or 35 per cent. 

Ninetieth Pennsylvania lost 94 out of 208, or 45 per cent. 

One Hundred and Seventh Pennsylvania lost 165 out of 255, or 65 per 
cent. 

One Hundred and Twenty-first Pennsylvania lost 179 out of 263, or 68 
per cent. 

One Hundred and Forty-second Pennsylvania lost 211 out of 362, or 59 
per cent. 

One Hundred and Forty-third Pennsylvania lost 252 out of 465, or 55 per 
cent. 

One Hundred and Forty-ninth Pennsylvania lost 336 out of 450, or 75 
per cent. 

One Hundred and Fiftieth Penusjdvania lost 264 out of 397, or 68 per 
cent. 

One Hundred and Fifty-first Pennsylvania lost 335 out of 467, or 73 per 
cent . 

The Union troops at various points won signal success, for 
they captured parts of three brigades of Confederate troops, 
Archer's Davis' and Iverson's. 

The One Hundred and Seventh Pennsylvania reported the 
capture of more prisoners than the regiment numbered. 

Of the Pennsylvania regiments in the Eleventh Corps, 

The Twenty-seventh lost 111 out of 324, or 45 per cent. 

The Seventy-third lost 34 out of 332, or 10 per cent. 

The Seventy -fourth lost 110 out of 381, or 32 per cent. 

The Seventy-fifth lost 111 out of 258, or 40 per cent. 

The One Hundred and Fifty-third lost 211 out of 569, or 39 per cent. 

On the Union side of the greatest regimental losses at Get- 
tysburg the First Corps is represented by the One Hundred 
and Fifty-first, One Hundred and Forty-ninth, One Hundred 
and Fiftieth, One Hundred and Forty-seventh, One Hundred 
and Forty-third and One Hundred and Forty-second Pennsyl- 
vania, and the Eleventh Corps by the Twenty-seventh, Sev- 
entj^-fourth, Seventy-fifth, and One Hundred and Fifty-third 
Pennsylvania. On the Confederate side, the' Twenty-sixth 
North Carolina lost, according to General Hoke's report, 70S, 
but by the War Department list, 588 out of ''over 800," over 75 
per cent., for these North Carolina regiments went into the 
field of great strength, some as high as 1,800, others 1.500; one 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 35 

company of the Twenty-sixth North Carolina lost out of 3 offi- 
cers and 84 men, all of the officers and S3 of men ; another com- 
pany, of the Eleventh North Carolina, lost 36 out of 38. Tlie 
Second North Carolina Battalion was reported by General 
Ewell as losing 200, by the War Department 153, out of 240, 
75 or 65 per cent. ; Lane's North Carolina Brigade of Pender's 
Division, lost 660 out of 1,355, nearly 50 per cent. ; Daniel's 
Brigade lost 916 out of 2,100 over 43 per cent.; Pettigrew's 
Brigade lost 1,105, nearly the whole strength of Biddle's. The 
total loss in the Union Army at Gettysburg was 27 per cent., 
that of the First Corps on the first day was over 70 per cent., 
that of the Eleventh Corps over 60 per cent. Compare these 
with the losses in famous foreign battles. At Balaklava the 
Light Brigade lost 37 per cent., at Inkerman the Guards lost 
45 per cent., the heaviest German regimental losses in the 
Franco-Prussian war were 49 per cent. The Twenty-sixth 
North Carolina lost 73 per cent., the One Hundred and Forty- 
ninth and One Hundred and Fifty-first Pennsylvania about as 
heavily. Nor did these Pennsylvania regiments fight any bet- 
ter on Pennsylvania soil than elsewhere, while their comrades 
from other states fought as bravely here as in any other field 
during the war. It has been the habit to speak of the first 
day's battle as if it had been an accidental encounter, in which 
horse, foot and artillery were driven in and through Gettys- 
burg. In point of fact there was no accident, no surprise no 
easy victory. Buford went by Reynolds' order to find the 
enemy, and his report on the 30th showed where Lee's forces 
were concentrating. From the dawn of July 1st, when Bu- 
ford's cavalry first met the advance of Hill's Corps, until night- 
fall, when the Army of the Potomac was concentrated at and 
near Gettysburg, there was sturdy fighting, stout resistance 
against a largely superior force, and an all-important position 
and time to concentrate on it gained. The Confederate Army 
fought to win the first day, but the Union Army fought to win 
the next day and the next day, and the final victory.* 

The battle of Gettysburg was a varying series of successive 
engagements, with alternate gains and losses, but the final re- 
sult was that crowning success which was largely due to the 
good fight fought on the first day against heavy odds. 

*Jolm C. Ropes', "Tlie Campaign under Pope." 



36 Pennsylvania at Gettyshiirg. 

The first day's battle was a series of distinct contests, and, 
like every battle, it was a compound of victory and defeat; 
every soldier killed, wounded or captured, every inch of ground 
gained or lost, being part of the final result. It was, indeed, 
"the soldier's battle," for it was the fixed determination of the 
soldiers to hold the ground that counted for more than any 
skillful manoeuvers of military art or the best tactical methods. 
Buford's two brigades of cavahy fought and held in check 
Heth's Division, and when Buford was relieved, the First 
Corps fought Heth's and Pender's Divisions. When the 
Eleventh Corps came to the front it met Rodes' and Early's 
Divisions, and then the right of the First Corps also became 
engaged with these strong divisions. Meredith's Brigade of 
the First Division of the First Corps captured part of Archer's 
Brigade, Cutler's Brigade captured part of Davis' Brigade, 
Baxter's Brigade of the Second Division of the First Corps 
captured part of Iverson's Brigade of Rodes' Division of 
Ewell's Corps. Meredith's Brigade fought in turn the whole 
or part of Archer's, Pettigrew's, Brockeubrough's and Daniel's 
Brigades. 

Stone's Brigade and the Sixth Wisconsin, Ninety-fifth New 
York and Fourteenth New York fought Davis' and Daniel's 
Brigades, and the Fifty-sixth Pennsylvania and the Seventy- 
sixth New York also encountered them, while Baxter's and 
Cutler's Brigades were pitted against the brigades of Iverson, 
O'Neal and Ramseur. Of the artillery engaged on the first 
day, the record is one of pre-eminent service. Tidball's Horse- 
Battery, under Lieutenant Calef, fought almost unaided, and 
the batteries of the First Corps bore the brunt of a largely 
superior number and weight of guns; Cooper's Battery B, First 
Pennsylvania Light Artillery, Stevens' Fifth Maine, Reynolds' 
L, First New York, Stewart's B, Fourth United States, and of 
the Eleventh Corps, Wiedrich's I, First New York, Dieck- 
mann's Thirteenth New Y^ork Light Artillery, Wilkeson's G, 
Fourth Ignited States, Dilger's I and Heckman's K, First Ohio 
Light Artillery, greatly helped to secure the weak Union 
forces from the strong Confederate lines that steadily gath- 
ered there confident of success. Paul's Brigade captured part 
of several brigades of Pender's Division, Stone's Brigade of 
the Third Division fought in turn Davis' Brigade of Heth's Di- 
vision, Daniel's Brigade of Rodes' Division and Scales' Bri- 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 37 

gade of Pender's Division. Biddle's Brigade of the Third Di- 
vision on the extreme left, fought Pettigrew's and McGowan's 
Brigades of Heth's Division, while Brockenbrough's and 
Lane's and Scales' extended the Confederate line and overlap- 
ped the Union left, just as Early's Brigades overlapped the 
Union right. There Barlow's Division fought Gordon's, Hays' 
and Avery's Brigades, and Ames' fought Doles, and Daniels', 
and the right of the First Corps, Baxter and Cutler, and the 
left of the Eleventh, fought Iverson's, Daniel's, Doles' Ram- 
seur's and O'Neal's Brigades. Coster's Brigade of Steinwehr's 
Division was pitted against Hays' and Hoke's and Ramseur's 
Brigades. While the First Corps was put in almost to the 
last man, and the Eleventh Corps had only a weak reserve on 
Cemetery Hill, the Confederates had two divisions, Johnson's 
of Ewell's, and Anderson's of Hill's Corps, estimated by Gen. 
Fitzhugh Lee at over 10,000 each, and the four divisions that 
had been engaged, Heth's, Pender's, Rodes' and Early's, at the 
close of the action, at over 4,500 each. The First Corps then 
was reduced from 9,000 to 3,000, and the part of the Eleventh 
Corps actually engaged from 6,000 to 3,800. The actual losses 
of the Union forces on the first day were proportionally far 
heavier than those of the Union Army on the other days of the 
three days of fighting, and both Union and Confederate forces 
on the first day lost more heavily than on almost any other 
battlefield. The Second Corps lost 4,350 out of 10,500 engag- 
ed, over 42 per cent., in the battles of the second and third 
days ; the Third Corps lost 4,210 out of less than 10,000 actually 
engaged on the second day, 42 per cent.; the Fifth Corps lost 
2,187 out of 11,000, less than 20 per cent.; the Sixth Corps lost 
only 242, for it was wisely held in reserve; the Twelfth Corps 
lost 1,801 out of 8,000. On the Confederate side on the first day, 
Heth lost 2,850 out of 7,000, 40 per cent. Pender lost 1,690 out 
of 7,000; Early lost 1,188, and Rodes 2,853 out of their divisions 
Avhich went into action each 8,000; 35 per cent, for the latter, 
and about 12 per cent, for the former. 

Pickett's loss in his famous charge was 65 per cent, 2,888, 
of which 232 were killed, 1,157 wounded and 1,499 captured or 
missing; but on the first day the Iron Brigade lost over 60 per 
cent., and Biddle's Brigade, and Stone's Brigade lost nearly 70 
per cent. each. The First Corps with six brigades, and the 
Eleventh with five, fought eight brigades of Hill's Corps and 
4 



38 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

nine of Ewell's, and yet at the close of the first day, the fresh 
troops of Lee's Army were lield off from gathering the fruits 
of their hard-earned success by the strength of the forces be- 
fore them and those placed on the right and left. Even Wads- 
worth's Division, beaten and outnumbered, still held on to 
Gulp's Hill, and prevented Ewell from seizing it. Thus, too, 
Buford's little cavalry force made sufficient demonstration on 
the flanks to arrest the Confederate advance, and even tlie 
Union guns at the foot of Seminary Ridge, manned by the men 
of the Iron Brigade, though hard pressed, were safely with- 
drawn. Thus the Union forces were outnumbered and forced 
to retreat, but neither dismayed nor driven off hastily. Thus, 
too, was gained the practical fruits of the first day's battle, in 
the rapid concentration of Meade's Army on the position in 
the rear of Gettysburg, where General Meade turned his offen- 
sive defense into a final repulse and defeat of Lee's Army. It 
was the first day that prepared the way for this result, and 
dearly purchased as it was, the price was none too great to pay 
for the infinite advantage. There is glory enough for all who 
took part in the battle of Gettysburg, but for those who 
fought on the first day there is the special glory of having 
fought against overwhelming numbers, and yet with such firm- 
ness and pertinacity that the forward movement of Lee's 
Army was arrested, time secured for the arrival and concen- 
tration of Meade's Army, and the expected easy onset of the 
Confederates resisted at every point. To the events of the 
first day is largely due the final issue of the battle of Gettys- 
burg, and therefore it deserves a special record to-day here. 

No one thinks of limiting the significance of the battle of 
Gettysburg to the spot where it was fought, yet the fact that 
the field of battle lies Avithin the limits of the State of Pennsyl- 
vania imposes a special duty which has always been fully rec- 
ognized. As far back as 1864 the Battlefield Memorial Asso- 
ciation was organized to secure the ownership of the ground. 
State after state has joined in the solemn duty of marking, by 
permanent memorials, the position of every organization, and 
the dedication services have been memorable for eloquence 
and pathos. The State of Pennsylvania now marks the final 
act of a long series of legislative and executive measures, by 
inviting the veteran soldiers of all its organizations that took 
party in the great battle, to join in this reunion, and to set the 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 39 

seal of approval on its work. By its generous aid and under 
the watcliful care of a Commission composed of able officers, 
every one of its eighty-six organizations will be represented on 
the field by suitable memorials of its services here. Let us 
gratefully acknowledge the way in which the State of Pennsyl- 
vania has recognized and fulfilled its obligation. It has freely 
given money, and more than that, the Governor and the Com- 
mission appointed by him, have given time and thought, and 
have fulfilled to general satisfaction, a long, difficult and deli- 
cate task. The Commission closes its report with an urgent 
appeal for a memorial of General Meade and his great ser- 
vices. Let us heartily second that appeal. The same honor, 
too, is due to General Hancock. Great as is the work that has 
been done in making Gettysburg a permanent historical record 
in bronze and granite, that record is incomplete until statues 
of Meade and Hancock are placed on the field where the great 
victory was won. History has enrolled their names high on 
the list of those who deserved well of their country, and in its 
great and growing prosperity the country should not fall 
short in paying the tribute due them here. Meade and his able 
lieutenants earned here the gratitude of the nation, and he and 
they should stand forever in living bronze, keeping watch and 
ward over the memorials of their soldiers. 

The men of the First Corps put Keynolds' statue here in 
memory of their deep sense of his great qualities, and of the 
affection that endeared him to his soldiers. The first day's 
battle was largely due to his inspiration, and his spirit ruled 
the field long after his dead body had been borne from it. To 
his successor in command there, sent in answer to Buford's 
warning note, 'there seems no commanding officer here,' to 
Hancock, both for his services in the closnng hours of the first 
clay, in snatching the substantial fruits of victory from the 
enemy, and for his still more shining successes on the succeed- 
ing days of the battle, there is still due the acknowledgment 
best to be made in a bronze heroic statue. Then to complete 
the work, Meade himself should stand here, that the long list 
of memorials on the field he won, should at last be completed 
by one worthy of the great commander. That done, and only 
then, may we feel that the history of Gettysburg is finally 
told in bronze and granite, and that to all justice has been fully 
meted out. 



40 Pennsylvania at Oettyshurg. 

Yesterday we dedicated our regimental monuments, to-day 
we recall the operations of each of the three days of the great 
battle. Honor has been duly paid to the organizations that 
fought here. Here stands the statue of Keynolds. There at 
Round Top is the statue of Warren. We look in vain for 
Meade and Hancock. Their names are forever associated 
with Gettysburg, and it is due to them, to the men who fought 
under them, that here at Gettysburg due honor should be paid 
them. Until that is done, we cannot feel that the task is yet 
complete. Let us then see to it that before another Pennsyl- 
vania Day is celebrated, the statues of Meade and Hancock 
shall be put in place here. That done, then indeed, will the 
work be completed, and Gettysburg will no longer need tlie 
crowning memorial that is still wanting. In leaving Gettys- 
burg let us all bend our best energies to the requisite measures 
for securing suitable honors to Meade and Hancock, and may 
we meet here at no distant day to join in unveiling their 
statues on the field forever connected with their names. 



THE SECOND AND THIRD DAYS— JULY 2 AND 3, 1868. 



Brevet Brigadier-General Henry H. Bingham. 



IN the great metropolis of the nation but a few months ago. 
amid joy and tTianksgiving, speech and song, peace and 
prosperity, hallelujah and prayer, the official representa- 
tives of the people and assembled thousands of the populace, 
celebrated the centennial of the inauguration of George Wash- 
ington, first President of the United States. A government 
of the people, by the people and for the people, liberty for all, 
but exacting loyalty from all, the American Republic had lived 
one hundred years. Our Declaration of Independence was a 
masterful reality, our Constitution a matchless charter of free- 
dom, and that God inspired utterance that three millions of 
patriots gave to mankind and humanity; "We, the people of 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 41 

the United States, in oidei- to form a more perfect Union, es- 
tablish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the 
common defense, promote the general welfare and secure the 
blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain 
and establish this Constitution for the United States," found 
at the incoming of the second century, sixty-five millions of 
freemen, "a family at peace among ourselves," who could with 
reverent acclaim send greeting to the generations to come and 
with bended knee and uplifted eyes, in spirit humble, but voice 
firm and unwavering, declare, "We have fought a good fight, 
we have kept the faith, glory to God in the highest, on earth 
peace, good will toward men." We are to-day a happy people. 
A Constitution preserved, the integrity of the Union main- 
tained — liberty and law our cloud by day and pillar of fire by 
night. But the path has been no easy one to follow; the roses 
that have lined the way have had many thorns, and their 
colors have been darkly red, and on the hill side and in the val- 
ley, the unnumbered and nameless graves with monumental 
shafts and simple stones, cover all that remains of a patriot 
dead who sacrificed their all for human rights, that here as- 
sembled to-day, we "May hail the coming century with hope 
and joy." 

The limitations of the Constitution, the integrity and inde- 
pendence of the states, the legislation enacted by the sover- 
eign Congress, the statutes enforced within the borders of the 
commonwealths, the discussions in church and from the pub- 
lic rostrum upon the construction of our fundamental law, the 
variety and diversity of interests in our industries and large 
communities; labor in its many forms and conditions, all, all 
contributed to consummate, upon the election and inaugura- 
tion of Abraham Lincoln, that physical and moral climax of 
forces, known in our history as the War of the Kebellion or the 
American Civil War of 1861-1865. It was the greatest war of 
modern times. Its field of operation measured almost a con- 
tinent in territory; eight hundred millions of treasure — a 
people's toil, but paid its living moving needs — its dead and 
dying reached six hundred thousand men and permanently dis- 
abled and destroyed the health of over one million more — it 
covered a land with widows and orphans — it begot suff'eriug 
never to be estimated and privations countless; it exhibited 
bravery unparalleled, courage and endurance unsurpassed ; its 



42 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

leadership was magnificent, its soldiery heroic. Such was the 
nation's tragedy of the nineteenth century in which you played 
so well your part. Greatest of all, in the fulness of time it 
came, because in the destiny of our civilization and national 
life it had to come that American constitutional liberty might 
live — ''The Union, one and inseparable, now and forever." 

Amen to the mighty sacrifices — amen and all hail the might- 
ier consummation ! 

The contending armies cover bodies of men in action and 
battle, in suffering and slaughter, in camp and hospital almost 
beyond human conception or understanding. The Union 
forces enrolled during the four years number two millions 
seven hundred and seventy-two thousand four hundred and 
eight men (2,772,408) and estimated upon a basis of three 
years' service, 2,320,272, or about two thousand regiments. 

The Confederate armies from the best attainable sources 
are estimated at 700,000 for the period of the war, or 786 regi- 
ments on the ten-company basis. 

The military population of the states on the Union side was 
4,559,872, and from the eleven states of the Confederacy 1,064,- 
193. 

There were killed or died of wounds on the Union side — 

Officers, 6,365 

Enlisted Men, 103,705 

Aggregate, 110,070 



Died of disease on the Uiiion side — 

Officers, 2,712 

Eulisted Men, 197,008 

Aggregate, 199,720 



Making the grand aggregate from all causes during the war 
359,528, or 15.4 of the entire army. 

There were 275,175 wounded, but not mortally. 

The estimated loss of the killed or mortally wounded in bat- 
tle on the Confederate side was 94,000, and death from disease 
59,297. 

The Union army embiaced volunteers from every condition 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 43 

of our industiial life, but the graucl uieasure of obligation be- 
longs to that people who in every contest for freedom liave 
ever been foremost. 

Forty-eight per cent, were farmers, twenty-four per cent, 
mechanics, sixteen per cent, laborers, five per cent, commer- 
cial pursuits, three per cent, professional men, four per cent, 
miscellaneous. 

Nationality formed a distinctive feature. The great body of 
foreigners, who from the days of our Eevolution, have done so 
much to develop our industries and add to our wealth, strengtli 
and vigor as a people, responded quickly to the call for troops, 
and fought bravely through the long war. 

Three-fourths of the army were native American. Of the 
500,000 soldiers of foreign birth, Germany furnished 175,000; 
Ireland, 150,000; England, 50,000; British America, 50,000; 
other countries, 75,000. 

Coming late into active warfare, but when once a part of the 
army rendering valuable and distinguished service, we find the 
enlistment of the black troops to have reached the large num- 
ber of 178,975, and their deaths from all causes to have been 
36,847. 

The Republic has remembered their services and in the bat- 
tles of the future they will enter at the commencement of 
every struggle for freedom. 

There were one hundred and tAvelve battles in which one 
side or the other lost over live hundred men killed and wound- 
ed, and in all there were one thousand eight hundred and eigh- 
ty-two general engagements, battles, skirmishes or affairs iu 
which at least one regiment \vas engaged. Every state of the 
United States and every territory sent volunteers to the 
Union Army. 

Such briefly were the physical and statistical conditions of 
the two great forces fighting for the supremacy of their prin- 
ciples and moral ideas, accepting in the arbitrament of arms 
the final determination of the issues involved. 

This mighty host — these millions who fought the fight, the 
hundreds of thousands who fell, and the million who were 
broken down in health and strength, came willingly — came for 
the war shouting, "We are coming, father Abraham, five hun- 
dred thousand more." Yea they came and brought final vic- 
tory—not simply the applause of the multitude from all over 



44 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

the land — not alone the trophies of war— torn battle-flags and 
smoking guns, but they brought final victory full and com- 
plete. 

Our Constitutional Government saved — saved not only to 
the victors but to the vanquished. Saved to be loved and hon- 
ored, revered, respected and obeyed by all. A quarter of a cen- 
tury has passed and truly can we say as Milton said of Crom- 
well, "That war made him great, peace greater." 

Throughout the length and breadth of this great common- 
wealth a loud appealing voice rings out — "Watchman, what of 
the night?" The nation wants help! and lo, the answer comes 
from mountains and valleys, from the fields ripe with the wav- 
ing golden grain; from the centers of trade, commerce and 
manufacture ; from the loom, the anvil and the workshop ; from 
the bench, the bar and the pulpit; from the schools and col- 
leges of learning and science— from j^outh and age, from every 
condition of American manhood — "All's well, Pennsylvania 
will give her bravest and best, the strongest and most faith- 
ful of her sons !" 

Call the roll : 315,017 white soldiers, 8,612 black soldiers, 14,- 
307 sailors and marines, aggregating 337,936 ! 

Sixty-five and nine-tentlis of the military population, aver- 
aged upon the basis of three years' service, they numbered 
265,517, embraced in two hundred and fifteen regimental or- 
ganizations. Of the three hundred regiments in the Union 
army that sustained the heaviest losses in battle, including 
every regiment in service which lost over one hundred and 
thirty killed or died of wounds during the war, fifty-three are 
grouped from Pennsylvania. Thirty-seven Pennsylvania regi- 
ments lost in killed and died of wounds in battle over ten per 
cent, of their total enrollment. 

Of the forty-five regiments in the Union army that lost over 
two hundred men killed or mortally wounded in the action, 
eleven are from Pennsylvania. 

Of the twenty-two regiments in the Union army where the 
loss of killed or died of wounds during the war reached fifteen 
per cent, or upwards of their enrollment, five are from Penn- 
sylvania. 

They have the following order : 

4th — On hundred and Fortieth Pennsylvania Volunteers, 
17.4. 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 45 

9th — One Hundred and Forty-second Pennsylvania Volun- 
teers, 16.5. 

10th — One Hundred and Forty-first Pennsylvania Volun- 
teers, 16.1. 

12th — One Hundred and Forty-eighth Pennsylvania Volun- 
teers, 15.6. 

]3th — Eighty-third Pennsylvania Volunteers, 15.5. 

Thirty-three thousand one hundred and eighty-three aggre- 
gate the number of deaths (wounds and disease) from all 
causes — an average of 15.4 of the troops furnished. 

The percentage of killed in action of the soldiers from the 
Keystone State, based upon the white troops, is greater than 
in the quota of any other northern state. 

The cavalry of Pennsylvania being especially distinguished, 
exceeding in losses tliat of the cavalry of any other state. 

These brave men who fought so gallantly were Pennsylva- 
nia's sons. They are all around us here to-day where they fell. 
They are buried in the sleeping homes of the nation's dead, and 
in the resting places where loving eyes can watch and loving 
tears can ever water their graves. You, the living soldiers 
here with us, equally brave, have quietly melted into the peace- 
ful walks of life ever performing full duty as American citi- 
zens. 

Pennsylvania gave you all to the nation, and when you wore 
the honored blue, hoAvever much you loved your state, you be- 
came the soldiers of the Union. 

But the time was near in the mighty contest when you, the 
living, and the thousands dead, were to be marshaled upon the 
hills and valleys of your loved state and in a death struggle, 
fight the greatest battle of the war and contest in the most 
important strategic issue of the age, for it was upon this field 
— this Gettysburg ''that the star of the Confederacy reaching 
the zenith turned by swift and head-long plunges toward the 
nadir of outer darkness and collapse." 

Waterloo and Gettysburg are marked as the two great bat- 
tles of the age. 

The Union army numbered 82,000 men and 300 guns; the 
Confederate numbered 70,000 men and 250 guns; the battle 
lasted three days and the casualties upon the Union side were 
23,003, and upon the Confederate 27,525 men. 

In detail the Union cause lost 3,063 killed, 14,492 wounded, 



46 Penn.si/lvania at Gettysburg. 

and 5,435 missing or captured; many of the wounded and many 
of the captured died. No authentic details are available for 
the Confederate side. 

Pennsylvania's bravery upon this field embraces 26,628 men ; 
in detail, sixty-eight regiments of infantry, eight regiments of 
cavalry, and five batteries of artillery. 

The killed and mortally wounded are 67 officers, and 964 
men, 1,031 total. 

The general casualties number 5,907. 

We are glad to be here to-day to aid in the serious and jja- 
triotic ceremonies that will contribute to make this hallowed 
ground immortal. This large gathering of the living remnant 
of a brave soldiery ; these respresentatives of civil authority ; 
these organizations of loyal devotion to comradeship; this 
gathering of vast numbers upon the hillsides — the military dis- 
play in blue, these flags and guns and all the paraphernalia of 
war, these speechless mounds and numberless graves, these 
monuments that proclaim a history, all attest the greatness 
and fitness of this occasion. We are glad to be here. How 
the scene has changed! What is it now? Cemetery Hill and 
the Uidge, Culp's Hill, Round Top, Peach Orchard and Devil's 
Den^ — What it was! No one man living or dead ever saw. 
You were here, but the fight was everywhere. No pen can 
write, no tongue describe, no artist's brush or pencil picture. 
In the years to come impartial histor}^ will place in imperish- 
able record the best adjustment of all controversies and con- 
flicting statements. Let us hope that is best. Better that 
those of us who were a part, shall hold its bloody record as a 
memory, and treasure the heroic deeds of our comrades, as the 
needed sacrifices for "nobler modes of life and purer laws." 
But "with malice toward none, with cliarity for all," we can 
quickly pass in review some of the fearful work of those never- 
to-be-forgotten days. 

Lee's invasion of Pennsylvania, was the first determined ad- 
vance to plant his standards and entire army upon free soil, 
and passing over the Susquehanna to capture the capital of 
our state, and Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington, wliere 
great treasure could be demanded and exacted from these 
cities of wealth. 

Once having established a foothold, recognition would qnick- 
ly be accorded by foreign nations, 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 47 

He came upon our fruitful borders and entered our rich do- 
main, with banners flying and all the surroundings of a con- 
quering hero. His army marshaled a leadership experienced 
in warfare, possessed of the highest military capacity, and a 
soldiery ripe from the victories of Fredericksburg and Chan- 
cellorsville, bold, aggressive, disciplined, and feeling the spirit 
of invincibility. They came to do or die. To fight and to stay. 
The great loyal North kneio their purpose of invasion and 
trembled. The Army of the Potomac, strong in numbers, 
wearied and worn with long marching, remembering the severe 
recent defeats and hard blows received in Virginia, lacked that 
morale and enthusiastic confidence that had been its com- 
panion on many a hard-fought field. But when the army knew 
the next clash of arms was to be on the soil of Pennsylvania — 
their home and heritage — like a giant, conscious of strength, 
and restive for a final struggle, they forgot defeat and weari- 
ness, and lifting up their voices sang songs of victory as they 
moved in compact form on marches forced and long. 

The change in the command of the army had just reached the 
men, and with unswerving judgment and soldierly instinct 
they knew and felt that in General Meade the army could con- 
fidently trust and safely fight; a confidence merited and de- 
served. The battle of the first of July is over, and along the 
many roads converging upon these hills the Union Army is 
rapidly marching, lighted by the full moon and cooled by the 
soft air of the summer night. 

General Meade reaches the field about midnight; confer- 
ences with Hancock, Howard and others follow, then an imme- 
diate inspection of the field, to be renewed at four (4) a. m., 
when the first rays of daylight appear. There has been no de- 
lay, no evidence of uncertainty, the battle is to be fought here 
and the troops are all marching on. 

A supreme struggle known to soldiers and general. The 
troops arrive and by 9 a. m., with the exception of the Sixth 
Army Corps, not far away, the dispositions are made — great 
expedition creditable to Meade and his soldiers. 

On the Union side, the right wing composed of the Twelfth 
Corps with Wadsworth's Division of the First Corps, based it- 
self on the rough and wooded eminence of Gulp's Hill. The 
Eleventh Corps with Robinson's and Doubleday's Divisions of 
the First Corps held Cemetery Hill. The prolongation of the 



48 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

line to the left along the crest of Cemetery Eidge was occu- 
pied by Hancock's Second Corps; the Third Corps, under Sic- 
kles, formed the left wing running from Hancock's flank to 
Round Top. The Fifth Corps had upon its arrival taken posi- 
tion on the right, in reserve. On the Confederate side Long- 
street held the right, (opposite Sickles) his troops drawn along 
the well-wooded line of Seminary Ridge; Hill's Corps con- 
tinued the line along the same ridge to the Seminary, opposite 
the Union center, and Ewell's Corps, the Confederate left, 
stretched from the Seminary through the town and enveloped 
the base of Culp's Hill. 

Thus face the two giants that are to meet in a deadly contest 
— a grapple that will know no yielding save in defeat. 

There seems to be some misunderstanding about the line 
General Sickles has taken. His troops are seen advancing, 
and as he moves forward they are leaving Hancock's left and a 
large gap is plainly visible, and Sickles' left is in advance of 
Round Top and an angle is made with Hancock's line instead 
of a compact prolongation. Is the army to change its left line, 
or are all to move further forward? is the inquiry of men and 
commanders. The sight was a grand one, that marching mass 
of trained brave men; they looked invincible, although some- 
thing seemed not right, for many horsemen were riding rapid- 
ly in all directions, while the movement afforded a large part 
of the army the opportunity to see the power of a compact 
force. 

Meade rides rapidly up to the ridge accompanied by Sickles ; 
an earnest conversation follows concerning the advanced posi- 
tion of the troops. Meade, before the Committee on the Con- 
duct of War, states : "I told him it was not the position I had 
expected him to take; that he had advanced his line beyond 
the support of my army, and I was very fearful he would be 
attacked and lose the artillery which he had put so far to the 
front, before I could support it. General Sickles expressed 
regret that he should have occupied a position which did not 
meet with my approval, and he very promptly said that he 
would withdraw his forces to the line which I had intended 
him to take. He could see the ridge by turning around which 
I had intended him to take, but T told him I was fearful that 
the enemy would not allow him to withdraw, and that there 
was no time for any further change or movement. Before 1 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg.' 49 

had finished that remark the enemy's batteries opened upon 
him and the action commenced." 

Lee had resolved to attack the Union line — his own words 
are as follows: "It was determined to make the principal at- 
tack upon the enemy's left, and endeavor to be in a position 
from which it was thought that our artillery could be brought 
to bear with effect. Longstreet was directed to place the divi- 
sions of Hood and McLaws on right of Hill, partially envelop- 
ing the enemy's left which he was to drive in. General Hill 
was ordered to threaten the enemy's center to prevent i-ein- 
forcements from being drawn to either wing, and co-operate 
with his right division in Longstreet's attack. General Ewell 
was instructed to make a simultaneous demonstration upon 
the enemy's right, to be converted into a real attack should 
opportunity offer." 

The battle has opened, and as Longstreet has been observed 
by the troops posted in the orchard, our artillery opens and ere 
long the musketry fire grows fiercer. 

The attack falls upon Sickles' line, the left front, just where 
it recedes from Sherfy's Peach Orchard on the Emmitsburg 
road. 

DeTrobriand's and Ward's Brigades, of Birney's .Division, 
hold this line. The attack is boldly made, and the struggle be- 
comes close and unyielding. The enemy's line laps the left 
flank of the Third Corps by about two brigades, and at once it 
is apparent the effort will be to scale the sides of Bound Top 
and gain possession of this, the key to our line. As the battle 
grows in fierceness and intensity, additional troops are con- 
tinually arriving. Meade, upon leaving Sickles, had ordered 
to the left Caldwell's brave division of the Second Corps, and 
troops of the Fifth Corps are already arriving on the field. 

Brigade upon brigade go in and come out — all around Bound 
Top, Peach Orchard, Devil's Den, Plum Bun, Emmitsburg road 
and the Wheat Field. 

The battle opening at four o'clock p. m., on the extreme left, 
had extended towards the town, until by six o'clock every Con- 
federate brigade had advanced from the line of battle on Semi- 
nary Bidge, including that of Law's on the extreme right of 
General Lee's line, opposite Bound Top, to Wright's Brigade, 
which had attacked Gibbon's Division on Hancock's center, 
and the whole intervening country from the Devil's Den. on 



50 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

the base of Eound Top, to and above Codori's house, on the 
Emmitsburg road, was filled with a struggling mass of armed 
men. 

The demons of war have been at their terrible work. Hour 
seems to follow hour, but there is no cessation to the booming 
cannon and the rolling of musketry. Wounded men are con- 
tinually coming back, yet the lines hold their own only to 
break and re-form and again attack. Birney's Graham's and 
Humphreys' troops have fought hard, and Caldwell's Division 
of four brigades have, under a scathing fire, struggled long 
and valiantly. Sykes, of the Fifth Corps, has brought into ac- 
tion four of his brigades, and others, under Barnes, Ayres and 
Crawford, are soon to follow and do good work. Williams has 
been ordered from the right, and closely follows the Fifth 
Corps. A mass of troops are on the left, and our line is now 
strong where it was once so weak. 

Our losses are appalling. Graham falls wounded, and is in 
the hands of the enemy. The brave Sickles has received a ball 
in the leg, and he has been carried off the field. Hancock is 
assigned to the command of the corps. Cross and Zook, of 
Caldwell's Division, are killed, and Willard dies bravely. 
Thousands of men are hors-de-combat. Brave Humphreys, in 
obedience to Birney, completes his movement to fall back from 
his advanced position, and displays that cool intrepidity and 
courage that has ever marked his able generalship. He 
reaches his line at last, but half of his gallant force have fal- 
len. Crawford's Pennsylvania Eeserves, and a part of Hays' 
Division do good work ; and Hunt, intelligent and watchful sol- 
dier with his reserve artillery has strengthened the line. Men 
are worn out with the fury of the fight; the dead are every- 
where; the wounded legion. Night at last comes and around 
the Devil's Den, Peach Orchard, Round Top and the Wheat 
Field and woods where the battle boiled and bubbled like a 
seething cauldron, the worn-out and exhausted soldiers slept 
side by side with their comrades dead. 

The battle on the left for the day is over. The blazing sun 
has sunk to rest and night takes pity and shadows all, that 
the fearful slaughter may cease. Errors of judgment may 
have been committed — other disposition of troops may have 
been wiser, and our lines may have been located giving us 
greater strength and greater resistance. But that is passed; 



Pennsijlvania at (JcUijshuf(i. 51 

uo battle of the war exhibited greater bravery on the part of 
officers and men, than that which clustered around and iijion 
Little Eound Top and the now famous fields and woods upon 
our left. 

The losses of the Third Corps were very great. The men 
fought and died, and then seemed to rise up and strike again. 
l>rave Warren, whose rare military judgment and quickness of 
action saved Eound Top, and Weed, Vincent, O'Rorke and Haz- 
lett, who, after heroic and magnificent work, yielded up their 
lives to hold this important citadel, will ever be held in 
special honor and love. Brave men; none braver on that 
memorable field. Eound Top will yet be crowned with their 
monuments in bronze and stone. 

Up to a late hour the entire right of our line, extending f loni 
Cemetery Hill to and over Culp's Hill, had remained unas 
saulted except by the sharp artillery fire from batteries on 
Beuner's Hill, but they were eventually silenced by the splen- 
did practice of Union guns on East Cemetery Hill. 

Wadsworth's Division of the First Corps, had occupied the 
northern face of Culp's Hill the night before, and early on the 
morning of the second, Geary's Division of the Twelfth Corps 
had moved over from its position, north of Little Eound Top, 
and formed on Wadsworth's right, extending down the south- 
eastern face of the hill; and a little later Williams' Division, 
commanded by General Euger, marched over from Wolf's Hill 
where it had spent the night, and formed on Geary's right, ex- 
tending the line in a zig-zag course to Spaugler's lueadow at 
the base of the hill. 

Nothwithstanding these troops had not been molested during 
the day, they had not been idle. Immediately on taking that 
position, a line of breastworks had been commenced, which by 
nightfall were sufficient to afford the troops ample protection. 
When, however, the condition of the battle on the left assumed 
such threatening proportion. General Meade called on General 
Slocum, commanding the right center, for troops to go to the 
assistance of the left, and General Williams, temporarily com- 
manding the corps, was ordered to send his own division, com- 
manded by General Euger. These troops moved out of their 
works accompanied by Lockwood's Brigade, and were led by 
(jreneral Williams in person to the scene of action, arriving, 
however, after the severe fighting was over, and only Lock- 



52 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

wood's Brigade was temporarily engaged. lu the meautiine 
(ieneial Slociim had ordered Geary to send two brigades of his 
division to the same destination ; and Candy's and Kane's Bri- 
gades, under the personal command of General Geary, started 
for the same destination, but through some unexplained error 
they marched down the Baltimore pike to and beyond Rock 
creek, when they threw out pickets, leaving only Greene's 
Brigade to hold the long line of works built and occupied by 
the entire corps. As these brigades moved out General 
Greene commenced to deploy the One Hundred and Thirty- 
seventh New York Volunteers in that portion of the works va- 
cated by Kane's Brigade. At the same time that the Twelfth 
Corps troops were being withdrawn, Johnson's Division of 
Ewell's Corps advancing from beyond Benner's Hill, moved 
to attack the Twelfth Corps' position on Gulp's Hill, Stuart's 
Brigade assaulting Kane's position at the moment when the 
One Hundred and Thirty-seventh New York was being de- 
ployed in the works, and although stoutly resisted, Stuart 
occupied the position and his brigade spent the night inside 
the Union works. Although Greene's position was previously 
assaulted, he successfully repulsed every attack, assisted by 
several First and Eleventh Corps regiments sent to him by 
General Wadsworth, and by ten o'clock at night the battle 
ended. In the meantime General Kane, hearing the sound of 
battle, returned with his command, and although fired upon 
by Stuart's men Avhen he attempted to go to his old position, 
he eventuall}^ reached it by a circuitous route and occupied a 
strong position among the rocks on Greene's right, and by mid- 
night Col. Candy's Brigade also returned and extended Gen- 
eral Kane's line. When Euger's Division and Lockwood's 
Brigade returned on finding their works occupied by the enemy, 
they took up a position on the open fields facing the woods, ex- 
cept Colgrove's Brigade, which moved over to the east side of 
Spangler's meadows. While this contest w^as taking place^ 
Generals Slocum and Williams were attending a council of 
war at General Meade's headquarters. 

On returning and learning the state of affairs General Slo- 
cum at once ordered his artillery in position to command the 
works occupied by the enemy, and at 4.30 a. m. it opened fire. 

In the meantime General Johnson had been reinforced by 
General Walker's Brigade of his own division, and Daniel's 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 53 

and O'Neal's Brigades of Major-Geueral Eodes' Divisiou, aud 
when Slocunrs artillery opened lire, Johnsou having no artil- 
lery in position Avitli which to reply, ordered an attack by his 
infantry all along the line. A counter-attack was made by 
General Williams, aud the battle raged Avith varied success 
until near eleven o'clock, by which time the enemy was driven 
out and the original line restored. 

Almost simultaneously with Johnson's attack on Gulp's Hill, 
Hays' and Hoke's Brigades of Early's Division charged Bar- 
low's division, Adelbert Ames in command, in position on East 
Gemetery Hill. The crest of the hill was occupied by Wied- 
rich's, Ivicketts' and lieynolds' Batteries, while Stewart's Bat- 
tery, also on the hill, was trained on Baltimore street leading 
from the town. But the most important position, a shoulder 
on the west side of Gulp's Hill, since called Stevens' Knoll, 
was occupied by the Fifth Maine Battery commanded by Lieu- 
tenant Whittier. 

The assault was made at the dusk of evening and was not 
observed until the enemy was far advanced. Colonel Wain- 
wright, chief of First Gorps artillery, directed his batteries to 
open tire, but unfortunately the guns were so placed that they 
could not be depressed, and, notwithstanding the terrible flank 
fire by the Fifth Maine Battery, the infantry giving way, the 
enemy was soon among the guns. Wiedrich's Battery was 
captured and one or two of Kicketts' guns were spiked. At 
this juncture General Hancock dispatched the brave and fear- 
less General GarroU with his gallant brigade to the scene of 
action. General GarroU immediately led his troops forward, 
attacked the enemy, aud, assisted by some Eleventh Gorps 
troops, quickly restored the line and recaptured the guns, 
when the battle ended for the night. 

Before the firing had ceased on the Union right, on the sec- 
ond of July, General Meade hastened to his headquarters and 
called his council of war— a gathering of the ablest and great- 
est leaders that had ever commanded the corps of the Potomac 
Army. Slocum, Sedgwick, Hancock, Howard, Newton, Sykes, 
Birney, Williams, Gibbon, Butterfield, were all present. The 
conclusion was soon reached. "Kemain in the present posi- 
tion and await the enemy's attack." Out of 52 infantry bri- 
gades, 42 had been engaged and 36 seriously. The corps com- 
manders reported about 58,000 men for the next day's fight. 
5 



54 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

The losses during the day crippled, perhaps, the Union side 
the least, but the enemy had gained great advantages. On 
their right the Conferedates had secured a lodgment on the 
bases of the Bound Top, possession of Devil's Den, and the 
ridges on the Emmitsburg road, a valuable position for artil- 
lery. 

On the left an occupation of part of the iutrenchments of the 
Twelfth Corps with an outlet to the Baltimore pike, by which 
all of our lines could be taken in reverse. At the center, par- 
tial success, effecting no lodgment because they lacked proper 
support. Lee recognized the value and importance of the ad- 
vantages he had secured, and having had engaged but seven- 
teen out of his thirty-seven brigades of infantry, he felt confi- 
dent a great victory could have been gained, if his orders had 
been obeyed and his generals had co-operated. 

The morale and discipline of his men were excellent — thtey 
wanted to fight and looked forward to a victory on the mor- 
row. Lee's language is as follows: "The operations of the 
second of July induced the belief that with proper concert of 
action, and with the increased support which the positions 
gained on the right would enable the artillery to render the 
assaulting columns, we should ultimately succeed, and it was, 
accordingly, determined to continue the attack." 

The same bright moon that had lighted the way of the thou- 
sands of brave soldiers, gayly singing their songs of triumph 
as they marched, July first, to these memorable fields, shone 
out again with equal brilliancy, upon scenes of activity and un- 
ceasing labor. The wounded were carried to the rear and the 
lines re-formed among the dead, too numerous to be cared for. 
Sleep came to the eyes of few. It required the vigor of youth 
to withstand the strain. 

Throughout the loyal states consternation was in the minds 
and fear in the eyes of men. The Army of the Potomac had 
suffered reverses on the first and second of July, and nothing- 
save that shattered and worn army stood between the march 
of Lee's victorious legions and the great cities of the North. 

The Sixth Corps supplies reserves to various parts of the 
line. The Fifth Corps, on the left, extends itself so as to oc- 
cupy the acclivities of Great Round Top, and protect the flank 
from surprise. The Third Corps, worn out and disabled, is in 
reserve. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 55 

At earl}^ dawn the fight commences on the right, for orders 
have been sent to dislodge the enemy. Slocum commands the 
right wing, and he voted last night at the council, ''stay and 
fight it out." It is most important that our line be main- 
tained, and for almost five hours a determined and courageous 
struggle continues. Finally the enemy are compelled to move 
back, and our troops regain their position. This is an unex- 
pected loss to Lee. 

Pending the formation of Longstreet's column on the 3d, 
General Lee directed General Stuart to move with his cavalry 
beyond the left of his infantry, and endeavor to secure a posi- 
tion from which to co-operate with the attack about to be 
made by General Longstreet. This movement was made, but 
was met by a counter-movement by General Pleasouton who, 
under orders from General Meade, had taken up a position to 
meet any flank attack by the enemy, and protect the L'^nion 
flank and rear. Simultaneous with the great cannonade Stuart's 
command, consisting of Hampton's, Fitzhugh Lee's, W. 
H. F. Lee's and Jenkins' Brigades, advanced to the attack. 
They were met by Mcintosh's Brigade and Custer's Brigade, of 
Kilpatrick's Division, and, after a desperate hand to hand en- 
gagement, were repulsed. 

Later in the day General Meade ordered General Kilpatrick 
to take up a position to threaten the Confederate right. Gen- 
eral Kilpatrick moved with Farnsworth's Brigade, and was 
subsequently joined by Merritt's Brigade, of Buford's Division. 
A demonstration was made by General Kilpatrick's order, dur- 
ing which General Farnsworth was killed. 

The whole cavalry movement of the 2d and 3d of July, ex- 
hibited on the part of officers and men, not only bravery and 
courage, but able leadership, making memorable their record 
as indispensable adjuncts to the great battle and victory. 
Pennsylvania's contribution to the corps embraced many 
troops, and under the fighting qualities of fearless Pleasonton, 
the names of Generals John Buford, David McM. Gregg and 
Colonel J. Irvin Gregg, will ever be cherished and loved. 

It is now eleven o'clock, and our lines are firmer and 
stronger than on the 2d of July. The men have had rest and 
food, the ground is better understood and the troops are reso- 
lute, knowing that another disaster may or will be complete 
defeat. Extreme quiet reigns, and behind the low earthworks 



56 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

the men wait the coming storm. Hancock rides his line, and 
his appearance, like an inspiration, gives confidence to his sol- 
diers. About one o'clock two cannon shots are fired — the men 
know they are signal guns. Suddenly, amid smoke and tiame, 
there belches forth a thunder cannonade as if the very ele- 
ments were in battle, and the air is filled with exploding shells. 
Pandemonium has commenced, and will so continue for 
the next two hours. Fifteen minutes pass for all is quiet 
along the Union front, then there is a return of death-deal- 
ing hostility, and the seventy-seven guns of the Union 
Army join the one hundred and thirty-eight guns of the Con 
federacy. What seemed thunder before now seems a hundred 
times more deafening, for the troops are all lying near the ar- 
tillery. 

Men hug the ground, for death and destruction are flying all 
around — a sight so magnificent has never been seen by this 
generation upon this continent. Our guns, after an hour's in- 
cessant storming, gradually cease firing. The enemy believe 
our artillery has been silenced, but it has been the wise fore- 
sight and judgment of Meade and Hunt who had directed the 
ammunition to be saved. 

Under the cover of the smoke wafted by a soft light breeze, 
the enemy advanced. Pickett's fighting men, fresh, strong 
and determined to reach our lines, move forward as if on a 
holiday parade. They look like the brave Third Corps as it 
looked yesterday. The direction of the line is distinct— not 
a turning of the left flank, but the assault is to fall upon Ceme- 
tery Ridge and Hancock's Corps. These soldiers are like their 
superb commander— they tight to win^ — ^die if need be, for they 
have faced danger on many fiercely contested fields. There 
are ten regiments Of Pennsylvania troops in that old Second 
Corps, and he is a Pennsylvania soldier who commands them. 
Across the open plain the enemy marches with front appar- 
ently compact. Pickett leads, and then comes Armistead, 
Garnett, Wilcox, Kemper, Pettigrew, Trimble and a number of 
fearless men. It is their last heroic charge. That line of de- 
termined men lying along the Second Corps' front intend to al- 
low no return. 

How the banners flaunt, but they will soon droop, for the 
hands that hold them will be stricken down. It is death or 
victory, and the soil is Pennsylvania. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 57 

The enemy make a movement, a half wheel, our artillery 
opens upon the right flank, and McGilvery's forty guns are de- 
moralizing the steadiness of the forward movement. Other 
Confederate brigades now appear. iVrcher, Davis and Brock- 
enbrough are seen in single line with Scales on the right and 
Lane on the left. Pickett's skirmishers are ordered back for 
real work IkS about to begin. 

Forward, forward, here the}' come. No fear, no indecision — 
their eyes are fixed on the ridge and they will not waver save 
in death. They are fourteen thousand strong. 

They are within two hundred yards of the line on the ridge 
and Hazard, from his artillery, Korty, Brown, Gushing, Arnold 
and Woodruff blaze canister into tlieir ranks, the infantry 
pour musketry and McGilvery's guns drive them with shot and 
shell and roll up their flank. 

They are now upon us. We can see their faces — long, color- 
less, gaunt — their clothing covered with blood and dirt. 

The muskets bayoneted, carried at a charge, the look upon 
their firm faces, resolute, defiant, fearless. Up men of Penn- 
sylvania! up soldiers of the Second Corps! you or they must 
win this da}^ ; there is no retreat now. 

Harrow's and Hall's men strike them on our left, Stannard's 
flank-fire rolls them up on our right, and brave Alexander 
Hays with soldiers worthy of the gallantry of their leader, 
with a fire concentrated and fearful in its havoc, wedges them 
into solid column, which, driven like a massed weight, falls 
with a fearful force, impelled, upon the front of Webb's Bri- 
gade. They now seem irresistible, and they mean to kill. 

Webb, in the midst of his soldiers, fights as they fight, yet 
he is ever the leader. The fearful thunderbolt has driven back 
his first line, but it readily re-forms on the second and brave 
Webb falls wounded. 

The scene passes description — shot and shell and canister 
and musketry, every implement of warfare and death play 
havoc and let loose the dogs of war. Battle flags drop, men 
throw up their arms and fall upon their faces within our lines. 

The fight is over, the victory of victories is won. Well done, 
sagacious Meade — bravely done, Hancock, master leader in the 
battle-front of this the battle of the century — your blood has 
hallowed this ground ; and you, heroic Gibbon, and Webb, and 
Cushing, and Hays, and the long line of living and dead leaders, 



58 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

well done ! A nation thanks you and thanks your great army. 
Soldiers of Pennsjdvania, your valor has been seen in many 
battlefields, but on none has it been greater or grander, nobler 
or more heroic than on the July days of 1863. 

Again we hear the call, and in its tones a wail of anxiety, al- 
most grief — "Watchman, what of the night?" The answer is 
heard all over the land — "All's well. The Army of the Poto- 
mac has gained a great victory," and like an ocean's roar comes 
back response — ''Thank God and the Army of the Potomac.'* 



MUSIC. 
Dedication Quaktettb. 



TEANSFER OF MONUMENTS TO GETTYSBURG 
BATTLEFIELD MEMORIAL ASSOCIATION. 



GOVEENOK OF THE COMMONWEALTH, HON . JaMES A. BeAVEK. 



MY COUNTRYMEN : You have heard, in eloquent phrase, 
from the lips of personal participants in the battle of 
Gettysburg, what Pennsylvania's sons did here in con- 
nection with their comrades from other states, to preserve the 
heritage of our fathers for transmission to our sons. The me- 
morials erected, and yet to be erected, upon this field, are de- 
signed to transmit this story, so far as perishable materials 
can, to the coming generations. The story itself will be trans- 
mitted in other and more enduring ways. We recognize it as 
proper, however, that the spot upon which men proved tlieir 
devotion to principle by the surrender of their lives, should be 
marked by something distinctive and appropriate. This has 
been done in accordance with the wishes of the people of Penn- 
sylvania, as voiced in the acts of their representatives, and it 
now devolves upon me, as their chief executive, to transfer the 
custody of these memorials to a body of gentlemen composed 
of representatives of the different states, whose troops parti- 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 59 

cipated iu the battle on the side of the Union, and organiaed 
for the express purpose of preserving the battlefield and its 
surroundings, and of perpetuating the memory of the deeds of 
its participants. 

The Gettysburg Battlefield Memorial Association has done 
a great work in preserving this field for the study of patriots, 
heroes and soldiers for all time to come. The organization is 
not distinctively Pennsylvanian. In its management are 
found the representatives of the several states contributing to 
the purchase and care of the battlefield. It's work, although 
confined to a given locality, is of interest to the people of the , 
country and the world. For historical purposes, and for the 
study of strategy and tactics, Gettysburg is to be the great 
battlefield of the country and of the world. This fact has long 
been recognized by the Gettysburg Battlefield Memorial As- 
sociation, and is becoming recognized more and more by the 
people of the entire country, Gettysburg does not belong to 
Pennsylvania. Just as the principles of right for which men 
here fought were universal, and the results here won of general 
value to our common country, so the battlefield of Gettysburg 
is the heritage of our countrymen everywhere. Their repre- 
sentatives control it now and it is to be hoped that their offi- 
cial representatives in Congress will make provision for its 
further development for historical purposes, until the location 
of every militar}^ organization which fought upon the field will 
be designated and permanently marked. 

Pennsylvania has entire confidence in the present organiza- 
tion charged with the duty of preserving and maintaining this 
battlefield, and she, without hesitation, transfers to its cus- 
tody these memorials, erected by her official bounty and the 
contributions of the survivors of the several organizations 
which participated in the battle. She has, by legislative en- 
actment, sanctioned the organization of the Gettysburg Bat- 
tlefield Memorial Associatipn; she has contributed of her 
funds to its support; she has pride in its work, and will, doubt- 
less, continue to co-operate with it and through it for its con- 
tinued development, and the enlargement of its scope and 
efforts. 

To you, as the representative this Association, I beg to 
transfer the custody of Pennsylvania's Memorials, assured 
that they will be properly cared for and faithfully preserved, 



60 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

and that so long as these perishable materials shall continue 
to do so they will be permitted to tell their story of heroism, 
sacrifice and devotion to the generations yet unborn. 



ACCEPTANCE OF THE MONUMENTS ON BEHALF OF 
THE BATTLEFIELD MEMOEIAL ASSOCIATION. 



Hon. Edward McPherson. 



GOVERNOR BEAVER: The Battlefield Association will- 
ingly accepts the care, of the memorials which you have 
confided to it.« These tasteful and enduring monuments 
of bronze and granite, are an appropriate expression of the 
profound emotion with which a grateful people regard the 
great work done here by a noble soldiery. They vividly re- 
call to this generation, as they will suggest to future genera- 
tions, the anxieties and griefs which, in the midst of war's 
alarms, disquieted the homes of our broad and busy Common- 
wealth. They will as vividly recall the numberless privations 
and fatigues of camp and march, the suff'ering in hospital, the 
constant >strain of expectation, the awful carnage of battle, 
which those brave hearts endured for us and for the posses- 
sion of generations who are to come after us. And they y>'ill 
also forever testify the precious fruits of victory— our Union 
saved, our Constitution purified, our institutions immeasur- 
ably strengthened, the whole people firmly bound in an indis- 
soluble union of indestructible states. 

This lofty thought had, before the War of the Rebellion no 
place in the accepted theories of our government, but is a gift 
from that war. Before that event the Union was flippantly 
and frequently threatened from within, in both the North 
and the South; and if the states were boasted as indestruc- 
tible, it was because they were claimed to be independent and 
sovereign — and not at all as indestructible because an in- 
tegral part of a union indissoluble in whole and equally inde- 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 61 

structible in every part. So far as we are, therefore, this 
day fused into unity and have a cloudless future, we owe it 
primarily to the constancy and valor of the armies of the 
Union, who thereby made the nation their debtor to an 
amount which cannot be computed or paid. 

How much of the great result due to our many victories 
may be directly due to this victory, it is not possible accu- 
rateh' to state. But there were then existing circumstances 
of peculiar gravity which made this victory indispensable to 
the cause of the Union. We know that long before this battle 
several European cabinets had considered the policy of un- 
friendh^ intervention in our affairs. We know, definitely, tliat 
six months before this battle the Emperor of France had 
taken a step in that policy of hostility to Avhich he was im- 
pelled by ambition for his dynasty, now happily sank ,Prom 
sight. And we know, further, that the governing classes .in 
most European states then complacenth" regarded the end 
of the Great Kepublic as inevitable and awaited only a suffi- 
cient pretext to decide the issue and glean the profits. Our 
dangers from within were hardly less serious. Delays and 
defeats, debt and the draft, had sorely tried and deeply dis- 
couraged the hopeful and faithful, and had driven the timor- 
ous, the time-serving and the treacherous to look for peace 
through surrender. The invasion of Pennsylvania was made 
at this supreme crisis — the supreme crisis of the war, diplo- 
matically, politicallj' and militarily, and was timed so as to be 
adapted to these various exigencies. In all the war there was 
no moment so big with the fate of empire as July, 1863. If 
at that pivotal period, with foreign and domestic enemies of 
the Union alike crouching for its destruction, the Army of the 
Potomac had been subdued and beaten, and if on the fourth of 
July, 1863, the victorious army of Northern Virginia had been 
in quick pursuit of its flying foe to the then probable capture 
of Baltimore and of Washington, there can be no reasonable 
doubt that the fact would have become the long-sought pre- 
text for foreign intervention with its horrid brood of conse- 
quences. But the Army of the Potomac stood in its tracks — 
shaken but yet firm, Aveakened but yet defiant, threatened but 
yet victorious. It remained master. The Army of Northern 
Virginia it was which sped its way to the camps from which 
it came, and whence it never afterward took a northern step. 



62 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

As it disappeared there also disappeared all opportunity for 
intervention. And Gettysburg, having escaped the misfor- 
tune of witnessing the wounding unto death of Liberty and 
Union, rose to be the venerated spot on which free institu- 
tions received their efficacious baptism of fire and blood. 

In order to comprehend Gettysburg as a great historic 
name, and as a special place in the world, it is necessary to 
know exactly what each side represented in this death strug- 
gle. For this the official data are available — data which can- 
not be confused or denied, and must not be forgotten. The 
differences between the two were radical and unmistakable; 
were written down at the time in justification for action taken, 
and were put in issue when appeal was made to the God of 
Battles. The ''other side," by its declarations of that date, 
fought for the theory that our common Constitution had 
created a confederacy of states, and had not formed a union of 
the people of the states. They fought for the existence in that 
confederacy of an indefeasible right in each state to secede 
from it on every pretext deemed good by each state, and 
against the right of the Union to prevent the withdrawal from 
it of the people of any state on any pretext. They fought 
for the right of two governments and two peoples, to divide 
between them the territory of the Union, and against the 
right of one government and one people to preserve as its per- 
petual home, the magnificent empire won and given by the 
fathers. And they fought tluit human slavery, instead of re- 
maining a system local to, and controlled by, states, and with 
only qualified but defined rights in the Union, should be made 
the universal dominating interest in the confederacy — abso- 
lute everywhere as to rights, its characteristic institution, 
the very ''cornerstone" of its fabric, the dictator of its poli- 
cies, and a chief object in its life. 

These fundamental differences were brought by common 
consent, at Gettysburg, to the point of the bayonet and the 
mouth of the cannon, to be settled, after gigantic combat, by 
those grim and imperious judges from whose decision there is 
no appeal. Every soldier who fought in either army, there- 
fore, fought willingly or unwillingly, consciously or uncon- 
sciously, for or against the ideas involved in these differences. 
And Gettysburg has thenceforth stood, and will stand while 
history endures, as a synonym for an indivisible government 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 68 

under the Constitution, with freedom and equal rights for all 
as the pervading purpose of the former, and as the perpetual 
inspiration of the latter. 

Feelings of unspeakable thankfulness for this great gift 
have impelled the participating states to mark this tield, as no 
field has been marked from the beginning of tlie world unto 
this day. Alread}^ there are upon it two hundred and eighty- 
seven memorial stones and structures, which are located with 
historical accuracy upon the lines of battle of the Union Army, 
twelve miles in extent. Every regimental position has been 
or will be marked. And every tragic spot will be indicated 
upon this unique locality now known to have been the point 
expected and preferred by the commander of the invading 
army for the collision — -the convergence to it of roads from all 
directions within a radius of fifty miles, having indicated it as 
the probable seat of battle Avith the defensive army of the 
Union. 

Thus by a series of military events not specifically planned 
by either side, this battle of the giants came to be within the 
lines of Penn, but few miles from the lines of Calvert — the 
line between the two having long been the separation between 
the states of the free and the states of the slave. The dis- 
tinction which then came to Pennsylvania, and which will be 
to it as a crown throughout the ages, found it neither unpre- 
pared nor unworthy. No region in the Union has a prouder 
political lineage than this in which we are. It was solemnly 
dedicated, over two hundred years ago, by its wise, unselfish 
and humane founder, to "kindness and goodness and charity," 
through forms of government ijitended to give freedom in 
order that the colonists might be happy. As colony and as 
commonwealth, the record of Pennsylvania is radiant with 
acts of mercy and justice and virtue. Early in the struggle 
for independence, patriotic fervor drove it to the front, and 
troops from this ueigliborhood were among the first to hurry, 
in 1775, after Bunker Hill, to the help of the colonists of New 
England whose cause they made their own. When independ- 
ence was proclaimed, it was on the soil of Pennsylvania that 
its language was first heard. While the country was in the 
throes of the revolution, in 1780, seven years before the pas- 



64 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

sage of the great northwestern ordinance, it was Pennsylva- 
nia — a name "already dear throughout the world as a symbol 
of freedom" — which, first of the thirteen, "led the way to- 
wards introducing freedom for all," by jmssing the act of 
emancipation, which restored and established within it the 
rights of human nature — giving as reasons therefore thank- 
fulness for escape from danger and a desire to give a sub- 
stantial proof of gratitude, the duty of proving the sincerity 
of their professions in favor of freedom and the peculiar 
pleasure of adding "one more step to universal civilization," 

When independence was won, and the convention of 1787 
produced, within its chief city, the Constitution of the United 
States, "the most wonderful work ever struck off at a given 
time by the brain and purpose of man," Pennsylvania, in its 
deep yearning for nationality, was one of the first two states, 
and the first of the large states, to greet and ratify it; and 
from that august moment to this it has, without default or 
stint, given to the safety of that Constitution and to the 
growth of that. Union the sturd}^ service of its strong kands 
and the measureless wealth of its rich heart. 

It must, therefore, be regarded as a supreme historic fe- 
licity that upon a territory so dedicated, among a people so 
molded and so trained, and in a State so distinguished, in 
which over eighty years before, had been struck the first ring- 
ing blow for human freedom, was here struck the decisive 
blow, in the fullness of time and in a Titanic struggle, for the 
salvatien of our Constitution, the maintenance of our Union, 
and the rescue of the imperilled rights of human nature; and 
that, in this mighty contest, it was from out these peaceful 
and beautiful hills, for years the silent watchers and the 
shielding friends of fleeing bondmen, bondwomen and bond- 
children, when, suddenly, as in the twinkling of an eye, trans- 
formed by the subtle alchemy of battle, into quaking, smok- 
ing, cloud-capp6d, blood-drenched mounts, there issued in 
clear and resolute voice, amid the lightniug flashes of artillery 
and the thunderous roar of musketry, the thrilling but just 
sentence that, as the expiration for all this suffering and as the 
punishment for all this wrong, both our Union and our Consti- 
tution shall remain inviolate, and our country shall no longer 
contain a slave. Then, and therein, had Gettysburg its con- 
secration. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 65 

Honored Governor of our illustrious Commonwealth! I ac- 
cept from your hands, by direction of the Battlefield Memo- 
rial Association, the gifts which are the embodiment of the 
people's gratitude; and, fully realizing what they represent 
and what our duty is and will be towards them, promise you 
to devote ourselves to their care as to a religious duty of 
highest obligation. 






(66) 



PENNSYLVANIA 

RESERVE DAY 



GETTYSBURG, 

SEPTEMBER 2, 1890 



(67) 



PENNSYLVANIA RESERVE DAY 

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 1890, 1.30 P. M. 



Ceremonies at the Rostrum of the National Cemetery, 

GETTYSBURG;, Pa. 



Hon. Andrew G. Curtin^ Presiding, 

War Governor of the Oommonwealth, 1861-1866. 

Music, Frankford Band^ of Philadelphia. 

Prayer, Chaplain J. Hervey Beale. 

Choir, "Dropping from the Ranks." 

"The Organization of the Reserves," 
Hon. Andrew G. Curtin. 

"The Commanders of the Reserves," 

Colonel John H. Taggart. 

Music, Frankford Band. 

"The First Brigade at Gettysburg," 

Brevet Brigadier-General Robert A. Mc Coy. 

"The Third Brigade at Gettysburg," 

Lieutenant W. Hayes Grier. 

Poem, "Major and Surgeon G. B. Hotchkins, 
Read by First Lieutenant and Adjutant W. P. Llotd. 

Presentation of Monuments to Battlefield Association, 

Hon. James A. Beaver, Governor of the Commonwealth. 

Acceptance on behalf of Battlefield Association, 

Brevet Major Chillon W. Hazzard. 

Music, Frankford Band. 
(68) 



THE FIRST BRIGADE AT GETTYSBURG. 



Brevet Brigadier-General Robert A. McCoy. 



ON the 3d of June, 1863, Brigadier-General S. W. Crawford, 
of the regular army, an able and gallant Pennsylvanian, 
who had won distinction at Fort Sumter, in 1861, and 
later, as an officer on General Rosecrans' staff, and also as a 
brigade commander in Banks' army, was assigned to the divi- 
sion and proceeded to prepare it for active service in its 
camps, near Washington, D. C., to which it had been with- 
drawn at the urgent solicitation of Governor Curtin, who al- 
ways vigilantly looked after the welfare of Pennsylvania 
troops, in order that its ranks might be repleted after the 
many hard-fought battles in which it had participated. 

All then existing vacancies in field and line officers were 
filled. With some recruits, and the return of many from the 
hospitals who had been absent, wounded or sick, the division 
was soon in good condition for the field ; and both Rej^nolds, of 
the First Corps, and Meade, of the Fifth, applied to the War 
Department to have it assigned to his individual command. 
After four months of monotonous picket duty experienced on 
the outposts of the defenses of Washington, it became irk- 
some to the spirit of the corps, accustomed, as it had been, to 
most active and severe service at the front, and when rumors 
of a threatened invasion into Maryland and Pennsylvania fol- 
lowed close upon the battle of Chancellorsville, fought on the 
3d of May, 1863, which were made significant by a call for the 
militia of the state by Governor Curtin, on the 12th of June, 
for her defense, the old veterans became restive and petition- 
ed the general government to return them to the Army of the* 
Potomac. On the 12th of June, coincident with the state proc- 
lamation, though no danger was then apprehended at Washing- 
ton of any invasion, Lee flushed and emboldened by his past 

(69) 



iO Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

successes, which he believed augured well for the success of 
other plans that ^y ere far-reaching in their effect, left his posi- 
tion south of the Eappahannock, and started on a cautious 
movement toward the Shenandoah Valley tending towards the 
north. By the next day Hooker was also on the move, closely 
watching the unfolding of the enemy's plan. After capturing 
Winchester, on the night of the lith, the advance rebel cav- 
alry, under Jenkins, crossed the Potomac and pushed rapidly 
through to Chambersburg, Pa., followed by Ewell's Corps, on 
the 16th, that raided by division, north upon Chambersburg, 
York and Carlisle, and also westward up the Potomac to Cum- 
berland, Md, By these several movements Lee had hoped to 
draw the Army of the Potomac into Maryland and Pennsyl- 
vnia, and then with the balance of his army he would move 
by Snicker's and Ashby's gap's, in the Blue Ridge, upon Wash- 
ington, and strike from the south side. But the plan not hav- 
ing the desired effect upon Hooker, he suddenly pushed for- 
ward his whole army into Maryland on the 24th and 25th, and 
rapidly advanced into Pennsylvania with the purpose to 
plunder and destroy, if he could not succeed in transferring 
the battle-ground from Virginia. Hooker, who had advanced 
according to the movements of Lee, then started in pursuit, 
and on the 25th crossed the Potomac at Berlin and Edwards' 
Ferry, and proceeded to Frederick, Md., thus keeping between 
Washington and the enemy, who had crossed at Williamsport 
and Falling Waters. On the 23d, orders were issued from the 
War Department for the Pennsylvania Reserves to join the 
main army at Frederick, though the Second Brigade was de- 
tained for defense at Washington. The regiments of the 
First and Third Brigades were withdrawn from their various 
out-posts, and by five o'clock that afternoon were on the move. 
On the 27th, the Potomac was crossed at Edwards' Ferry, and 
on Sunday, the 28th, the division reached the army at Fred- 
erick, and was assigned as the Third Division, Fifth Army 
Corps, the same position it held through the Peninsular cam- 
paign. To their surprise they found General Sykes taking 
command as successor to General Meade, who, that morning, 
had received the appointment of commander of the Army of 
the Potomac, in place of Hooker, suddenly relieved at his own 
request. The same breath that heralded to the astonished 
troops the retirement of the one, through his own farewell 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 71 

order to the army, announced the appointment of the other, 
and his acceptance of the command. And whatever may 
have been the private individual judgment, not a murmur of 
discontent arose from that well-disciplined and loyal body of 
men to question the wisdom that decided the rise and fall of 
its commanders. Space will not permit going into the details 
of this sudden change on the eve of a great battle, nor the 
cause that inspired it; suffice it to say that they were neither 
just nor generous to "fighting Joe Hooker," nor creditable to 
General-in-Chief Halleck. 

As a part of the secret and unwritten history of the selec- 
tion of a successor to Hooker, when it had been determined 
to relieve him, it is worthy of record that from the long list of 
able generals in the Army of the Potomac, the only names 
voted upon by the Cabinet for the position were Keynolds 
and Meade, both of whom had risen into fame as commanders 
of the Pennsylvania Eeserve Volunteer Corps. No greater 
compliment could have been paid to the corps than this, and 
the fact, that in consideration of its two great chieftains, a 
single vote alone decided which should wear the highest 
honors. From Frederick the division moved at noon on the 
29th, as rear guard to the long artillery and ammunition 
trains, which at times greatly impeded progress, but after 
long delays, it moved so rapidly forward that lost time was re- 
covered in very severe marches, reaching Uniontown, Mary- 
land, on the evening of the 30th, where it encamped for the 
night. On the afternoon of July 1st, the division was halted 
at the state line to hear a most patriotic and stirring address 
from General Crawford. Looking over into their own loved 
state with all the pride of their patriotic hearts, the enthu- 
siasm of the men became almost unbounded, and as they 
crossed the line with cheer after cheer there was determina- 
tion to fight as they had never fought before to drive the in- 
vader from the soil of their native state. The march from 
the state line to Gettysburg, via Hanover and McSherrys- 
town, was almost continuous and very fatiguing, and, as but 
little time could be allowed for either sleep or rest, sorely 
tried the physical endurance of the men. But they were in 
most excellent spirits, and but little straggling took place. 
Perhaps never was greater effort made to keep up, and as they 
approached Gettysburg, knowing that the battle had already 



72 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

been forced and that General Eeynolds had fallen, it proved a 
stimulus to more than ordinary power to overcome fatigue, 
and lielped the sick and the weak to force their waning 
strength. The death of General Reynolds was received with 
demonstrations of sincere sorrow by the old Reserves. He 
was the only one of the original quartette of her commanders 
that death had summoned, and from the battlefield. Brave, 
generous and true, his courage never failed where duty called. 
It was while conspicuously prominent in posting his troops, 
July 1st. — a target for the enemy's fire, that the fatal bullet 
pierced his neck and he fell — dying almost instantly. His re- 
mains were taken to Lancaster, the city of his birth, where, on 
July 4th, midst tolling bells and muffled drums, and solemn 
requiemis sadly chanted — all that was mortal was laid away 
in quiet rest until that day when carnal strife is lost in ever- 
lasting peace. The division arrived on the field of battle on 
the morning of Thursday, the 2d of July, and joined the Fifth 
Corps at a point where the Baltimore pike crosses Rock creek, 
and was posted in the rear of the right of the line of the army 
as a support, that position being then threatened by the 
enemy. About three o'clock the Fifth Corps was moved from 
its position near the extreme right to the left of the line where 
General Crawford was ordered to mass the division near the 
east slope of Little Round Top, where guns and ammunition 
were inspected. The men were impatient to engage in the 
terriblfe conflict raging in their front, and into which they 
knew the}' would soon be ordered, but for the time being the 
topography hid from them the panorama of bloody war taking 
place in their front. 

The line of battle for the second day lay along Cemetery 
Ridge from Gulp's Hill, on the right, to Round Top, on the left, 
and the disposition of the troops was as follows: On the ex- 
treme right, on Gulp's Hill, with its right flank extending to 
Rock creek and the Baltimore pike, lay the Twelfth Corps, 
with Wadsworth's division of the First on its left ; connecting 
on the left flank of this division, and along Cemetery Ridge, 
lay the Eleventh Corps, with the First, Second, Third and 
Fifth Corps prolonging the line to Round Top, or rather such 
appears to have been the plan of the original line. But in tak- 
ing position that afternoon the Third Corps, General Sickles, 
advanced to a ridge about three-quarters of a mile to the 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 73 

front, along and beyond the Ihnmitsburg road, into the pres- 
ence of a large body of the rebel arm}^, with his line on the 
right stretching along the front of a part of the Second Corps, 
and the left down through the peach orchard, wheatfield and 
woods to the Devil's Den, in the ravine in front of Round To}». 
The position was one of extreme peril, and troops less brave 
and disciplined than the gallant old Third Corps would not 
liave battled as they did against such odds until relief came, 
(ileneral Hancock placed his First Division to cover its right 
flank, and sent Caldwell's division to strengthen the line on 
the left. Fortunately the Fifth Corps had just arrived, and 
Griffin's division, commanded by Barnes, and xVyres' division, 
regulars, were also thrown in on the left, where the most des- 
perate struggle ensued for the possession of Round Top. 
While this contest was raging, and the Union forces battled 
and held their ground as a wall of iron, General Sykes ordered 
General Crawford to the slope of the rocky ridge to the right 
and front of Little Round Top, to cover the troops engaged in 
the front should it become necessary for them to fall back. 
This movement placed the Third Brigade pretty well down the 
rocky slope with the Eleventh Regiment in the rear of the 
brigade, and in front of the First Regiment of the First Bri- 
gade. 

At this juncture, and while the division was being massed 
left in front, an order was received by General Crawford to 
send one of his brigades to the assistance of Vincent, then 
closely engaged with the enemy on the slopes of Big Round 
Top; Fisher's Third Brigade was designated for this service, 
and filed out .by regiment to the left. While this movement 
was being executed our troops in front, borne down by su- 
perior numbers and pressed back, though contesting every 
inch of ground from the peach orchard to the wheat-field and 
stone wall suddenly broke and fell back in confusion across 
Plum run, closely pursued by the enemy who sought to cut 
through the Union forces and seize the batteries on the left 
with W'eed's Hill and Round Top. The moment of time was 
most critical. On it hung the destiny of the day, and the fate 
of the battle of Gettysburg — for a two days' loss of position 
would scarcely insure victory for the third. To stem the tide 
of disaster, General Crawford personally ordered Colonel 
Jackson not to move the Eleventh Regiment out with the 



74 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

Third Brigade, but to remain in position where he was, iu 
front of the First Brigade. The First Brigade then moved 
rapidly forward to the ground vacated by the four regiments 
of Fisher's brigade. This placed the men within the range of 
the enemy's musketry fire, which was particularly severe on 
the Eleventh Eegiment. Here Lieutenant John O'Hara Woods 
and a number of enlisted men were killed, and Lieutenant- 
Colonel Porter and Lieutenant Fulton and many men wound- 
ed, with casualties in each of the other regiments of the bri- 
gade. 

It was a position requiring the highest qualities of the vet- 
eran soldier, but the men who fought at Dranesville, Me- 
chanicsville, Gaines' Mill, New Market Cross Koads, Malvern 
Hill, Second Bull Kun, South Mountain, Antietam and Freder- 
icksburg held it unmovable with their comrades falling 
about them, only eager and impatient to meet the enemy 
and add new laurels to those already won. During this 
time Colonel McCandless was forming his brigade into two 
lines of battle — the first line composed of the Sixth, Colonel 
Wellington Ent, which was to the right and rear of the Elev- 
enth, Colonel S. M. Jackson, and the First Eegiment, Colonel 
William Cooper Talley, on the left. The second line being 
massed on the first — the Second Regiment, Lieutenant-Colonel 
George A. Woodward, and the First Rifles (Bucktails), Colonel 
Charles Frederick Taylor, on the left. 

But before this movement could be fully carried out, and 
our front being practically uncovered by the broken masses 
of troops retreating past us, and the enemy being at close 
range, the front line opened fire. 

The Eleventh was armed with smooth-bore muskets, and, in 
addition to the usual charge of "buck and ball," the men, real- 
izing that the engagement would be at close quarters, had 
added additional charges of ''buckshot." Never before in the 
history of its service did the Eleventh deliver a volley with 
such terrible effect, each musket sending, as it were, a hand- 
ful of death-dealing balls into the ranks of the exultant enemy 
advancing so confidently with shouts of victory. But it was 
only to receive a volley that sent many of them reeling in the 
agonies of pain and death, while their comrades, broken and 
dismayed, had no time to re-form before the order was given. 
Forward, double quick — CHARGE. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 75 

With the furious battle yell peculiar with the Pennsylvania 
Eeserve Corps, and well-remembered by ''Stonewall" Jackson's 
men, against whom they were so often matched, the brigade 
swept down the declivity, following their gallant leader. Gen- 
eral Crawford (who carried the colors of the First Regiment 
on horseback), over the boulders of granite and swampy 
ground of Plum run, deploying as they went and hurling back 
the enemy, drove him across the plain, over the stone wall, 
through the woods and wheattield, until the lateness of the 
hour made it imprudent to push farther into the enemy's lines. 
But it was enough, the tide was turned, a portion of the lost 
ground regained, many prisoners taken, and the day saved, 
and by this charge, so daring, effective and decisive, was an in- 
spiration given to the whole line that brightened hope and 
renewed confidence in the ultimate success that so gloriously 
crowned the field of Gettysburg. 

With the exception of a strong skirmish line, the command 
was withdrawn to the stone wall and fence skirting the woods 
to the right. As they charged the regiments deployed so that 
when the stone wall was reached, the Sixth was on the ex- 
treme right, with the Eleventh, First, Second and Bucktails to 
its left. The Bucktails, in the charge, were met by a heavy 
fire on their front and on their left flank from the Devil's Den. 
Their brave leader. Colonel Charles Frederick Taylor, brother 
of the late Bayard Taylor, was instantly killed as his regiment 
took and crossed the stone wall. 

The regiments remained in position back of the stone wall 
until late in the afternoon of the 3d, when General Crawford, 
under personal direction from General Meade, who anticipated 
another movement on his left, ordered Colonel McCandless to 
move his brigade, with the Eleventh Regiment of Fisher's bri- 
gade, forward, and capture the battery uncomfortably near his 
line, and ascertain the position and strength of the enemy be- 
yond and skirting the wheat-field. This movement toas one 
of the brilliant dashes of the ivar, and is modestly and tersely 
told by Colonel McCandless in his official report: "On the 
evening of the 3d instant, I was ordered to advance and clear 
the woods on my front and left, to do which the command had 
to cross an open field about eight hundred j^ards wide. The 
enemy, noticing this movement, opened a battery directly in 
front. I pushed the Sixth Regiment through the woods on the 



76 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

right, and drove out the enemy's skirmishers and annoyed the 
gunners, causing the battery to slacken its fire, and as the re- 
maining regiments of the brigade charged in line, and at a run 
across the open field, they compelled the enemy to retire. 
Having cleared the woods in front, and finding a line of the 
enemy in the woods on my left and at right angles therewith, 
I charged the enemy directly on the left flank, routing him, 
capturing nearly two hundred prisoners, among them a lieu- 
tenant-colonel, also a stand of colors. The field was strewn 
with small arms, two or three thousand in number, the ma- 
jority of which had been piled on brush heaps ready to be 
burned. The enemy took up a new position on a wooded ridge 
about a half a mile in advance on our front, and were busy dur- 
ing the night chopping timber and fortifying." The second 
charge of the First Brigade was a fitting close for such heroic 
deeds, and when the strength of position of the rebel right, 
with its great number of batteries playing over their heads, 
the intrepid push into the enemy's lines away from all sup- 
ports, thus recovering that entire part of the field covered 
thickly with the dead and wounded, that from their numbers 
only revealed how fearful and desperate the confiict had been 
the day before, was truly a deed of humanity as well as of 
great courage. The enemy believed such dash could only be 
inspired by the advance of a heavy force, for it was made, as 
will be remembered, at a double quick, with only occasional 
pausings to fire on the resisting though retreating foe, and the 
woods alone prevented the enem}^ from discerning the insig- 
nificant number pursuing. As it was now dusk and too late to 
follow uj) the advantage gained, the command rested for the 
night on the position won. The men of the ambulance corps 
were soon upon the field with stretchers, and began as rapidly 
as possible to transport the sufl'ering victims of the lost ground 
of the previous day to the care of the field hospitals, where 
their wounds were dressed and water and nourishment sup- 
plied for tlie first time in more than twenty-four hours. Such 
are some of the vicissitudes and terrible sufferings that war 
imposes. The night was passed in the woods in impenetrable 
darkness, as any fire or lights would have revealed our posi- 
tion, and well is remembered the sensations of that strange 
weird experience among the dead. Hardly a step could be 
taken without fear or danger of treading on some body cor- 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 77 

poreal, whether living or lifeless, and the horror of ghostly 
thoughts that intruded was anything but composing to ex- 
hausted nerves and aching muscles. While feeling around for 
a comfortable place to rest, the hand was just as likely, as was 
the case more than once, to touch a form whose face was icy 
cold in death, as that of a comrade in whom the life blood 
was warmly and strongly pulsating in vigorous life. When 
the early dawn permitted a look around, the first sight that 
greeted the eye, close at hand, was the ghastly one of more 
than one hundred dead Confederates laid out in line for the 
rude battlefield burial, from which their living comrades had 
been "driven the evening before. The next day, the 4th of 
July, no advance of any importance was made by either army, 
beyond reconnoitering the position of the enemy in the imme- 
diate front, and sending the cavalry out on the flanks to watch 
and report the movements of the rebel force. Each army 
maintained picket lines which kept up the usual exchange of 
shots, generally without results. Otherwise all was quiet. 
Meanwhile the time was energetically employed in burying 
the dead, caring for the wounded and distributing ammuni- 
tion. After being under fire for forty- three hours, the com- 
mand was called in from the skirmish line and relieved, about 
ten o'clock, and withdrawn to the stone wall, where it was 
again relieved, at one o'clock, by the Second Division, regu- 
lars, and ordered to the vicinity of Eound Top, where it joined 
the Third Brigade. 

The Confederates were elated with their past successes and 
confident of a present victory, upon which the}^ expected im- 
mediate foreign recognition and aid from the disloyal element 
in the North, and to transfer the seat of war . from the ex- 
hausted fields of Virginia to the fertile valle3^s of Maryland 
and Pennsylvania. They fought with unusual bravery and 
hopefulness until after Pickett's charge, when the legions 
under Meade, instead of a dispirited army were found immov- 
able and equally determined to win- success; so that defeat, 
after most desperate and sanguinary fighting for three days, 
with an aggregate loss in both armies of 54,000 men, left the 
Confederate army and people of the South more dejected over 
their cause and less sanguine of final success than ever before. 
Thus was the backbone of the great rebellion broken, and the 



78 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

historian has found in Gettysburg the decisive battle of the 
war. 

England has her Waterloo, France her Austerlitz and Ger- 
many her Sedan, but the loyal North with equal pride can hand 
from sire to son for generations yet to come her glorious field 
of Gettysburg. The days preceding the 4th of July, 1863, 
found the darkest period in the history of the rebellion for the 
North, Ever}^ interest was at stake, and gloomy fears per- 
vaded cabinet councils and hearthstones. But when on that 
memorable afternoon the lightning telegraph flashed from the 
Atlantic to the Pacific: ''Gettysburg and Vicksburg are ours," 
despair vanished and hope again sprang into life with a vigor 
never to be quenched until final victory crowned our arms at 
Appomattox. 

Glorious 4th of July, 1776— glorious 4th of July, 1863— may 
their memories thus intertwined in the nation's heart, ever call 
forth our warmest gratitude. May the enjoyment of our 
world-renowned heritage of civil and religious liberty ever 
keep fresh the debt we owe to those who, through great tribu- 
lations, established our Declaration of Independence, and 
those who eighty-seven years later sealed the blood-bought 
treasure with a second sacrifice of blood-bought victory. 



PRAYER. 



Chaplain J. Hervey Beale. 
(1st. Penna. Cavalry). 



GOD of our Fathers, we adore and worship Thee, and to 
Thee, by whose grace and providence we are what we 
are as a nation; here, Father, from this sacred spot, sur- 
rounded by the thousands of known and unknown graves and 
a few of the survivors of this bloody field, we lift our hearts 
in rendering thanksgiving and everlasting praise. 

We thank Thee for our glorious national heritage, for the 
magnificent land of wealthy hills and fertile plains, and for 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 79 

the laWvS and institutions which make it a land of progress and 
liberty. 

We thank Thee for our Christian sires, lovers of freedom 
and of God, men of conscience and integrity whose names 
have jeweled history, and the memory of whose deeds is an in- 
spiration to heroism and patriotic pride. 

We thank Thee for Plymouth Eock, for Yorktown, and that 
in the strength of justice and the might of mercy our arms 
were plumed with victory at Appomattox. 

We thank Thee that through Thy kindness and mercy, the 
father of our corps and so many of its survivors are here to- 
day. 

We implore Thee, Farther, to let heaven's richest blessing 
rest upon all that are pi'esent, the families of the survivors 
and of the fallen, upon our country and all for whom we should 
pray; in the name of Christ we ask it all. Amen. 



THE COMMANDERS OF THE RESERVES. 



Coi.oNEi. .John H. Taggart. 



COMRADES OF THE PENNSYLVANIA RESERVES: 
We meet to-day to dedicate these monuments to the 
memory of our fellow-soldiers, our honored commanders. 
The flight of years but enhance their merits; nor can time dull 
their record on the roll of fame. These leaders of the troops 
raised by a great commonwealth were the sons of Pennsylva- 
nia, born under her conservative institutions, and mustered 
beneath her guiding star of equity. They were reared equally 
upon the principles of constitutional liberty and respect for 
the rights of property. The first shot fired at the national 
flag, on Fort Sumter, fired also the northern heart. To a man, 
Pennsylvanians were, first of all, Americans. The Keystone 



80 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

State was one among many in that vast sectional strife, but 
all personal considerations, material interests, even the claims 
of kindred of her children, never caused them to waver for an 
instant in their devotion to their country. 

While this was the general sentiment, the men who first 
signed the record of their principles as leaders of our armies, 
practically staked their lives and fortunes on the hazard of 
the die; and here the supremacy of moral and physical courage 
was strikingly displayed by Andrew G. Curtin, the War Gov- 
ernor of Pennsylvania. On his action the issue of the contest 
hung. Pennsylvania was the Keystone of the Union, and her 
chief executive personally supported the arch, not only of the 
nation, but of the geographical territory binding together the 
North and the South. 

Pennsylvania was more closely allied with the South than 
with the North in ante-bellum days. Her commercial inter- 
ests and family connections were largely with Maryland, Vir- 
ginia and other southern states. Many of her institutions 
were patriarchal. Her policy was one of peace, and her 
people were thoroughly aware of the magnitude of the im- 
pending conflict. 

No man was more personally endeared to the whole people 
of his state than Governor Curtin. His individual acquaint-, 
ance with them was marvelous. .It is alleged that he kissed 
every bab\' born in Pennsylvania in 1861 and 1862. Spared to 
see twenty-five years of peace, and bless his native state, he is 
to-day the grandest of all the historic figures among his living 
countrymen. 

A partisan administration had consigned to the southern 
arsenals great stores of munitions of war, and in the South, 
too, the largest division of the regular army, under General 
Twiggs, had supinely laid down their arms before the power 
of the confederacy of the slave states; yet Andrew G. Curtin 
recognized that Pennsylvania was sound to the core, and that 
her sons would unflinchingly fight for the preservation of the 
Union. His work in organizing and arming the Pennsylvania 
Eeserve Volunteer Corps was not less phenomenal than the 
sagacity with which he selected George A. McCall to instruct 
and command them. McCall was a thorough soldier, a great 
organizer, and his strong personality was impressed upon the 
Keserves from the time thej^ entered the United States service 



Pennsylvania at Oettyshurg. 81 

until they were mustered out at tlie expiration of their term of 
enlistment. He was as mild and gentle as a women, but firm 
as a rock in the enforcement of discipline, yet his kindness of 
heart made him looked up to as a father by his beloved Ke- 
serves, and his noble example of heroism in battle, endur- 
ance of fatigue and privation on the march and in camp was 
the admiration of those wlio felt proud of him as their leader. 

General McCall was a Philadelphian by birth, a graduate of 
the West Point Military Academy of 1822, and an old officer of 
the regular army. He served with distinction in the war 
against the Florida Indians in 1836, afterward in the Mexican 
war, and in 1850 was appointed by President Taylor, inspector- 
general of the United States army with the rank of colonel, 
which position he held with great credit to himself until 
April, 1853, when he resigned his commission, retired from 
the militarj' service, and remained on his farm in Chester 
county until the rebellion of the southern people called his 
couutrj^men to arms. Immediately thereafter, in April, 1801, 
Governor Curtin summoned Colonel McCall to Harrisburg, to 
advise with him on the military situation and assist in the or- 
ganization of the Pennsylvanig, Reserve Corps. His whole 
heart and soul were in the work. It was his ambition and his 
pride to make the corps the equal, if not the superior, of any 
other body of troops either in the regular or volunteer service. 
How well he succeeded the lii story of the division attests. 
After the first battle of Bull Run, if the Pennsylvania Re- 
serves had not been organized, armed and equipped ready for 
the field, Washington Cit}^ would have fallen before the vic- 
torious foe. The capture of Washington would have been 
most damaging to the Union cause, as its enemies could then 
have dictated terms to the conquered Federal government 
from its capital. 

When the Reserves encamped at Teuallytown, on George- 
town Heights, General McCall, on entering the United States 
service, was commissioned a brigadier-general in the volunteer 
service. Up to that time the Reserves had not been organized 
into brigades, being composed of separate regiments, under 
the command of General McCall, holding a state commission 
as major-general. In order to perfect their organization into 
brigades, General McCall recommended to General Simon 



82 Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 

Cameron, the then Secretary of War, the assignment of Briga- 
dier-General John F. Keynolds to command the First Brigade, 
Brigadier-General George G. Meade to command the Second 
Brigade and Brigadier-General E. O. C. Ord to command the 
Third Brigade. 

General McCall's selection of his brigadier-generals showed 
the wonderful perceptive and discriminating faculties of the 
man. These officers were all graduates of the Military Acad- 
emy at West Point, but none of them liad ever commanded 
large bodies of troops until they were assigned to the Reserve 
Corps. The men were green volunteers, but with such train- 
ing as they received from these able and enthusiastic officers 
they rapidly developed into well-disciplined soldiers. 

In the words of General John Gibbon, of the regular army, 
expressed in his address upon the unveiling of the statue of 
General Meade in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia, October 18, 
1887, respecting Generals McCall, Reynolds and Ord: 

"Meade was especially fortunate in his associates; for 
George A. McCall, one of the most distinguished officers of his 
time, was his commander, and the other brigade commanders 
were destined to inscribe their names high on the glory roll of 
their country — John F. Reynolds and E. O. C. Ord. 

"There were regular officers, Avho, at the commencement of 
our civil war, unmindful of the different circumstances under 
which they were serving, seemed to think there was but one 
way to enforce discipline in our volunteer forces, and that was 
by following the old rut and routine of the regular army. 
Such an idea never found place in the minds of the officers I 
have mentioned; and the results, as exemplified in the subse- 
quent career of the Pennsylvania Reserves, amply justified the 
wisdom and sound judgment of those they were fortunate 
enough to have placed in command over them. 

"It was frequently noted during the war and afterwards, 
how much of the renown gained by volunteer organizations 
could be traced back to the right direction given to their ef- 
forts b}^ the sound judgment, good, hard, common sense, firm 
hand, and just dealings of the commanders who first took 
them in charge." 

General McCall commanded the Reserves in the brilliant 
engagement at Branesville, December 20, 1861, arriving on the 
ground soon after the action had commenced under the direc- 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 83 

tion of General Ord, commanding tlie Third Brigade. This 
was the first victory of the Union troops after the disastrous 
battle of Bull Kun, and the massacre at Ball's Bluff. McCall 
also led them in the famous Seven Daj's' Battles in front of 
Richmond, and in the battle of Mechanicsville, June 2G, 1862, 
in which the Eeserves bore the brunt of the fight and achieved 
a great success. It was one of the brighest pages in his gal- 
lant military record. In the battle of New Market Cross 
Roads, June 30, 18G2, he was captured and taken prisoner to 
Richmond, and was exchanged, along with General Reynolds, 
who was captured at Gaines' Mill, June 27, 1802, and both re- 
turned to the camp at Harrison's Landing, on the James river, 
on the 8th of August, 1862. They were most enthusiastically 
received on their return by the Reserves. 

The severity .of the Peninsular campaign, and the close con- 
finement in Libby Prison, had so seriously impaired General 
McCall's health, that he was compelled to return to his home 
in Chester county to rest and recuperate. After passing sev- 
eral weeks with his family, under constant medical treatment, 
he became convinced that he was not able to resume his posi- 
tion in the army, and he resigned his commission and retired 
to private life. After the battle of New Market Gross Roads, 
General Truman Seymour, who succeeded General Ord in 
command of the Third Brigade after Ord was promoted to 
major-general, assumed command of the Reserves until the re- 
turn of General Reynolds, who, being the ranking oflQcer, took 
command of the corps at Harrison's Landing on the day of his 
return to that camp. 

General Reynolds was a high-tempered man the ideal Hot- 
spur, as brave as a lion in battle, and perfectly oblivious of 
danger when in presence of the enemy. His promotion to the 
command of the First Corps, and his heroic death on the bat- 
tlefield of Gettysburg, on the first day, are too well known to 
need repetition here. He died defending the soil of his native 
state, and yonder monument, reared to his memory on this 
historic ground by his sorrowing comrades, will attest to fu- 
ture generations the courage and valor he displayed on this 
sanguinary but glorious field. 

General Meade was badly wounded in the battle of New 
Market Cross Roads, at the head of the brigade, and went to 
his home in Philadelphia for surgical treatment. Six weeks 



84 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg: 

after this he rejoined his command, and took part in the sec- 
ond disastrous battle of Bull Run, August 30th, 1862, in which 
action General Kej^nolds commanded the Eeserve Corps, 
where he displayed the greatest bravery and courage. 

After this the Confederate General Lee made his first inva- 
sion of Pennsylvania, in 18C2. On the march of the Army of 
the Potomac to iVntietam, General Reynolds, on the 12th of 
September, was relieved from the command of ' the Reserve 
Corps, and assigned to command the Pennsylvania Militia. 
General Meade succeeded to the command of the Reserves, 
and fought them most gallantly in the battles at South Moun- 
tain, Antietam, and, later on, at Fredericksburg, on December 
13, 1862, where, out of 4,500 officers and men going into battle, 
1,853 were killed, wounded and missing. 

After leaving the Reserves to command the militia, General 
Reynolds did not return to them, but was assigned to the com- 
mand of the First Army Corps. 

The ability and good generalshif* displayed by General 
Meade in commanding first a brigade of the Reserves, and 
afterwards the whole Reserve Corps, caused him to be pro- 
moted to the command of the Fifth Army Corps. 

When General Meade left the Reserves to enter upon the 
higher command, the parting was a sad one on both sides The 
officers and men were grieved to lose him, but they felt proud 
of his promotion. On his part his feelings were truthfully ex- 
pressed in his farewell order, which was read in presence of 
all the companies of the Reserves on Christmas Day, 1862, as 
follows : 

"In accordance with Special Order, No. 360, which separates 
the commanding general from the division, he takes occasion 
to express to the .officers and men that, notwithstanding his 
just pride at being promoted to a higher command, he experi- 
ences a deep feeling of regret at parting from them, with 
whom he has been so long associated, and to whose services 
he here acknowledges his indebtedness for whatever of repu- 
tation he may have acquired. 

"The commanding general will never cease to remember 
that he belonged to the Reserve Corps. He will watch with 
eagerness for the deeds of fame which he feels sure they will 
enact under the command of his successors, and though sadly 
reduced in numbers from the casualties of battle, yet he knows 



Pennsylvania at Qettyshurg. 85 

the Eeserves will alwaj^s be ready and prompt to uphold the 
honor and glory of their state." 

I have now traced the commanders of the Keserve Corps 
from its origin down to the second invasion of Pennsylvania 
by General Lee and the battle of Gettysburg, Meade was sud- 
denly called to a higher plane of duty, to command the vet- 
eran Army of the Potomac. He did not solicit that honor. 
On the contrary, it came unexpectedly upon him as a duty, and, 
like the good and true soldier that he was, he promptly as- 
sumed the command on the 28th of June, 1863, at Frederick 
City, and three days afterward the most decisive battle of the 
war began, and in three days more its greatest victory was 
won. 

I shall not attempt to describe the battle of Gettysburg. 
Other speakers who will follow and who took part in it with 
the Reserves will do that better than I can. In this great bat- 
tle the Eeserves were commanded by another gallant Pennsyl- 
vanian. General Samuel Wylie Crawford, a native of Franklin 
county. At the battle of Antietam, while in command of the 
First Division of Mansfield's corps, General Crawford was se- 
verely wounded in the thigh, from which he has not recovered 
to this day. He Avas rallying a regiment which had broken 
when he received his wound, but refused to be taken from the 
field and remained with his men cheering them on to victory. 

On the 3d of June, 18G3, General Crawford was assigned to 
command the Reserves. He was their leader in the battle of 
Gettysburg, and here he displayed the highest qualities of a 
soldier — good generalship and heroic courage. 

General Crawford also commanded the Reserves in the bat- 
tle of the Wilderness, Spotsylvania Court House and Beth- 
esda Church. On the 1st of June, 1864, he issued his farewell 
order to his war-worn Reserves, assuring them that they had 
nobly sustained him with unwavering fidelity in the many try- 
ing scenes through which they had passed. He regretted that 
he could not return to Pennsylvania with them, and said it 
would ever be his pride that he was once their commander, 
and that side by side they fought in campaigns which will 
stand unexampled in history. Of all the commanders of the 
Reserve Corps, General Crawford is the only surviving one. 

Comrades, I desire to pay a merited tribute to Brevet Major- 
General Horatio G. Sickle, of the Third Regiment of Reserves, 
7 



86 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

who commanded the Reserve Corps for a short time in the 
early part of 1863, after the battle of Fredericksburg, and was 
in command of the Second Brigada of the corps at Alexandria, 
when the battle of Gettysburg was fought. He was a brave, 
cool and faithful soldier, who enteied the army from civil life 
in 1861, and enjoyed the confidence of every commander of the 
corps. He died this year, mourned by all his comrades. 

General Meade was harshly and most unjustly critised for 
his management of the battle of Gettysburg. He was cen- 
sured for not pursuing and destroying Lee's army. In a con- 
versation in Philadelphia with General Meade some eight 
years after the battle, I asked him whether, with all the knowl- 
edge he had subsequently received of the strength and move- 
ments of the Confederate Army, and of his ability to attack 
Lee on his retreat, he felt that he was justified in doing as he 
did after the battle. 

He leplied in nearly these words: — "I am fully convinced 
that the course I pursued was right. If I had attemptetl to 
attack Lee on his retreat, in his stronghold along the Potomac, 
the result might have been disastrous to the Union cause ; and 
all the fruits of our victory have been lost. It was too great 
a risk to take, and I am satisfied that I did right in not forcing 
another battle at that time, in the exhausted condition of our 
troops. You know how hard General Lee tried to crush Gen- 
eral McCellan's army in the Seven Days' Battles, but he failed 
to do it under much more favorable circumstances than those 
that existed with the Union troops after the battle of Gettys- 
burg." 

General Meade has never had justice done him for the vast 
service he rendered the nation in the victory at Gettysburg. 
Burnside failed at Fredericksburg, Hooker made another 
failure at Chancellorsville, but Meade was a triumphant suc- 
cess on this historic field. He was then at the head of a vic- 
torious army, which had achieved the most decisive triumph 
of the war, and broken the backbone of the rebellion; yet he 
was forced to submit to the indignity of having General Grant 
placed over him as his superior in command in the army that 
Meade liad fought so well. 

The authorities at Washington probably did it for diplo- 
matic reasons. General Grant was a true soldier, and so was 
Meade. When Grant was ordered to command the Army of 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 87 

the Potomac, Meade, as his subordinate, obeyed, as a good sol- 
dier should, and gave Grant a hearty and uncomplaining sup 
port until the War of the Rebellion ended. 

In Philadelphia, where the ashes of McCall and Meade re- 
pose, responsive to the vernal sun of each recurring year, the 
survivors of the Pennsylvania Reserves and their Grand Army 
comrades march abreast to deck their graves with flowers — 
emblems of those brightest blossoms of the soul, love, venera- 
tion and gratitude. But Decoration Day for us may soon be 
celebrated in a fairer clime, Avhere generous fruits on trees im 
mortal grow; and ere we pass that silent river, shining 
brighter with the Christian's hope, we fain would leave a 
grateful tribute on the battlefield of Gettysburg to General 
George G. Meade. This is the duty that still remains. 

Pennsylvania owes it to herself to here commemorate the 
glory of the hero who saved her soil from the armies of the de- 
vastating foe. To Meade, who repelled the invading enemy, 
let the Memorial Hall be dedicated, that it may prove the 
shrine of patriotism for future generations. 

A monument to Meade should also be erected in the Na- 
tional Cemetery as a companion piece to that of Reynolds. 
They were united in life, and in death their glory should not 
be parted. On Round Top let Memorial Hall arise, a fitting 
consecration to Meade's great victory on this field. Let it be 
a treasury of trophies and mementoes of all the Pennsylvania 
regiments that fought at Gettysburg. 

The Board of Commissioners on Gettysburg Monuments 
have done their duty well in erecting the monuments we dedi- 
cate to-day. To no abler hands could the duty of erecting a 
monument to Meade and a Memorial Hall on Little Round Top 
be entrusted. 

Comrades! We stand upon the battle ground of Truth tri- 
umphant! On the field of Gettysburg thousands shed their 
blood, and gave their last sigh for freedom ! Here slaver}- died 
amid its worshippers, and here, in enduring marble, we place 
the record of our comrades' deeds. Words are faint to paint 
the glories of immortality; but here our hands have raised and 
our eyes have seen the signs and symbols of lines eternal 
which shall bear Avitness through all the ages to come. 

When the wild winds of winter hold their revels amid these 
sacred stones, beneath the snow's soft mantle, or decked with 



88 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg . 

flowers of spring, these monuments will still remain the 
tokens of the perennial honor, love and affection in which we 
hold the memory of our commanders. 

In the inimitable thought of President Lincoln, when he 
stood upon this hallowed ground, rather let us say that these 
monuments dedicate us, the fellow soldiers of the brave, to 
the service of a deathless memory and love of country. For 
these there needs no tear nor melancholy sigh. Life can give 
no more than death, after well-earned glory; nor has the tomb 
its chill for him who sleeps beneath the soldier's flag. 



THE THIRD BRIGADE AT GETTYSBURG. 



Lleutenant William Hayes Grier. 



COMRADES, LADIES AND GENTLEMEN: You have 
listened to the man who called into being, as soldiers, 
every man who wore the blue, from Pennsylvania, dur- 
ing the war, and who was known in my boyhood days as the 
"silver-tongued orator from Snowshoe;" you have listened to 
the talented editor who commanded regiments and brigades; 
you have listened to the scholar and soldier, who had much to 
do with the inside workings of the division, and you will hear 
from the brilliant soldier, who is the honored Governor of this 
Commonwealth, and last, but not least, you will hear from 
Major Chill. W. Hazzard, the humorist from the banks of the 
Monongahela, and in their midst, or as it were, like the meat 
in a sandwich, stands the high private in the rear rank. And 
now, comrades, what do you think would have been the status 
of this crowd of speakers, along the Potomac, in 18G3? I can 
tell you, with the exception of the private, all of them would 
have be^n sitting in a marquee, sipping Apollinaris water, 
and your humble servant, with a gun on his shoulder, would 
have been marching up and down in front of the tent, giving 
them that protection they so much needed. And as long as 
the soldier kept guard they would have been safe. They may 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 89 

need care to-day and that may be the reason why a private was 
injected into the programme, as a little leaven sometimes 
leavens the whole lump. They won fame in their country's 
service, but back of it all stands the private soldier. They, no 
doubt, appreciate the fact that without the work of the private 
soldier the^^ would yet be with us, in the ranks of the common 
herd. 

We do not envy them their good luck, and hope each one may 
yet be invited to go higher and higher. 

To sing the story of a brigade's heroic deeds in battle may 
seem to be an easy task, but when it is considered that over 
twenty-seven years have come and gone since the battle of 
Gettysburg was fought and won, you may well ask one anotlier 
whether it is possible for memory to enable you to give any of 
the details of the action or services of any brigade with which 
you may have been connected. Those of you who were, as I 
was, an enlisted man in the ranks, can readily appreciate the 
fact that the duty assigned me is about as hard as was the 
scaling of Round Top at midnight. A private soldier knew but 
little of Avhat occurred outside of his own company or regi- 
ment, and when he did get any information concerning his 
brigade, division or corps, he received it from the newspapers. 
He read it to-day and forgot it to-morrow, because it was not 
impressed upon his mind with the vividness and distinctness 
that came from actual experience. 

When the genial secretary of the Monument Commission 
wrote me extending an invitation to "make an address that 
should relate to the services of the Third Brigade in battle," 
1 was surprised, and when in his invitation he further said 
that these ''addresses will be embraced in a volume in connec- 
tion with other dedicatory services to be published by the 
state, and will therefore be matters of history," I was more 
than surprised. The secretary knew full well that I was not 
in sympath}' with the project of placing tomb-stones or mark- 
ers as monuments for the Reserve regiments, and I concluded 
that his kind invitation was a trap in which to catch a fellow 
who would not otherwise work well in harness. I hesitated 
about accepting the trust, and can explain in a very few sen- 
tences why I did not show my usual alacrity whenever any- 
thing pertaining to the Old Reserves was on the tapis. 

The grand idea of a "Memorial HalF' on the battlefield 



90 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

originated in the mind of the great and glorious War Governor, 
Andrew G. Curtin, and he presented the idea so strongly to 
the different committees of the different regiments, that they 
followed him almost unanimously. They obeyed his call in 
1861 and never regretted that they had him for their god- 
father ; they fell in with his idea of a "Memorial Hall," and it 
became part of their nature. The glorious ''old man" met the 
boys in different sections of the state, always carrying with 
him the plans and specifications for his cherished "Memorial 
Hall." Shortly after the assembling of the Legislature in 
1889, he again met representatives of the regiments in the 
Adjutant-General's office, at Harrisburg, and then and there 
was drafted a bill that, if passed and approved, would give us 
a "Pennsylvania Memorial Hall" that would be a credit to the 
state, and overshadow any and everything erected by other 
states on the battlefield of Gettysburg. In that bill we were 
not selfish, but had a genuine feeling of comradeship for our 
brother soldiers of Pennsylvania, as it contained a provision 
that "each and every regiment from our glorious old state, en- 
gaged in the battle, should have a tablet in the wall to recount 
its services, and relate its history." When the bill was fin- 
ished and presented to the Legislature we went home feeling 
happy. Under the provisions of the Kauffman bill providing 
for the erection of monuments on the battlefield, the Eeserves 
were entitled to a lump sum of .|1 3,500, and the amount asked 
for in the Memorial Hall bill was but .1?25,000, and in asking for 
the additional |11,500 we purposed, as T have before stated, 
taking care of the other regiments from our state. The Legis- 
lature kindly passed the bill, and again we were in high 
feather, for now our "Memorial Hall" was regarded as a cer- 
tainty. Kind friends flocked to our aid. One party offered 
us the ground, another the granite, another the glass, and a 
fourth one came in with an offer of all the iron necessary for 
its erection. The building was to have been built of granite, 
iron and glass, and with the generous tenders of all the ar- 
ticles needed, we saw our way clear to erect with the $25,000 
granted us by the Legislature, a soldiers' monument or memo- 
rial hall worthy of the memory of the dead who surrendered 
their lives in repelling Rebel invasion of the old Keystone. 

But on a bright May morning, the papers of the State sent a 
cold chill down the backs of every Reserve soldier. There, in 



Pennsylvania at Gettysbiirf/. 91 

cold type, was spread out the fact that our soldier comrade, 
Governor Beaver, had vetoed the bill giving us our Memorial 
Hall "for constitutional reasons." We were displeased, dis- 
gruntled, and some of us condemuefl him in severe terms. 
We were probably wrong, for he was too good a soldier to do 
us an injustice, and we must be content in believing that he 
was doing his duty as he saw it, in vetoing the measure. We 
regret that he found it necessarj^ to dash to the ground our 
fondest hopes. We have every reason to believe that he was, 
personally, in sympatliy with our project, for "he himself hath 
said it." 

That veto dampered our ardor but did not entirely submerge 
us. We met again and again and made several attempts to de- 
vise ways and means to get our Memorial Hall, but in the end 
the veto was victorious. The law authorizing the erection of 
the monuments and the appointment of a Commission, gave 
the Commission appointed under that law no alternative but 
to go ahead and execute it. They exceeded their authority in 
granting us time to appeal to the Legislature, and patiently 
awaited our venture in that direction. While some have been 
disposed, your speaker among the number, to censure the Com- 
mission for what they deemed an attempt not to give proper 
recognition to the Reserves, we now feel like saying that it 
was merely a case of diamond cut diamond. The Reserve com- 
mittee did not like the Commission, or some parts of it, and to 
a certain extent ignored it, and received the same treatment 
in return when the plans for the monuments of some of the 
regiments were ready for the chisel of the sculptor. We never 
saw the designs, and we suppose it was because we had no 
business with them. 

But to-day we are here to dedicate the monuments. We 
have them in place of the Memorial Hall, and we are indebted 
to the Commission for them. It is our duty to thank them for 
their work, for it was a labor of love, and not of emoluments, 
but, on the contrary, vexation of spirit was often their por- 
tion. Their work has been completed and they can rest con- 
tent in the knowledge of the fact that they performed their 
whole duty under the law. 

The ''services of the Third Brigade" in this battle can be told 
in a few sentences. On many another hard-fought field the 
"Third Brigade" performed greater work and lost many more 



92 Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 

brave men than it did at Gettysburg, but that was not the 
fault of the brigade. It was because the opportunity for ac- 
tual conflict was not presented us, although the places occu- 
pied by the different regiments were positions of importance 
and were held and would have been held against all comers. 
The brigade was under the command of General Joseph W. 
Fisher, and was composed of the Fifth, Ninth, Tenth, Eleventh 
and Twelfth Regiments. The first day's fight found us on the 
road, having left Uniontown, Md., at 5 o'clock in the morning. 
We were on the extreme right of the army, and at 6 o'clock in 
the evening we were within five miles of Hanover. Here we 
exchanged our cartridges and prepared for an emergency, and 
then started again and marched until 1 o'clock on the morning 
of the second, and encamped five miles this side of Hanover. 
Here we learned of the death of the lamented Reynolds. On 
the morning of the second we broke camp at 5 a. m., and 
marched two miles and halted for breakfast. We then moved 
and arrived neaf Gettysburg at noon: Rested until 5 p. m., 
when we were ordered forward, and just at the time the First 
Brigade made its memorable charge. At this time, and the 
place being to the right of Little Round Top, our brigade was 
separated. The Fifth and Twelfth Regiments were sent to 
Big Round Top, and in connection with a skirmish line from 
the Twentieth Maine, occupied the hill from the summit to the 
ravine at its foot, the Fifth being at the top of the hill and the 
Twelfth on its right. In those places they remained until the 
morning of the 4th of July when their positions were reversed. 
Our friend Bachelder has the positions on his map as they 
were on the morning of the 4th, but not as they were during 
the battle. 

Right here I think it proper to challenge the location of the 
Twelftli Reserves' monument. If it is intended to mark the 
spot occupied by the regiment on the 4th of July, or after the 
battle, then it is correct, but if it is intended to mark its loca-' 
tion during the engagement, then it is a fraud on the regiment, 
and falsifies history. It agrees with Bachelder's map,* but 
that is not correct, as far as regards the Fifth and Twelfth 
Regiments. I do not make this assertion from memory, but 
evidence written at the time, in my dairy, and which is yet in 

*Tlie positions as shown upon tha map were marked by the Commander of the 
brigadp, Briga-liei-General J. W. Fisher, in the Fall of 1S63. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 93 

my possession and I stand ready to prove the truth of my as- 
sertion. * 

The Ninth and Tenth Eegiments occupied the valley between 
Big and Little Bound Top, and the Eleventh was between the 
Trostle House and the wkeat-tield along with the First 
Brigade. 

Our work was mainly one of watching the movements of 
the enemy and holding the keys of the field. While the Tliird 
Brigade, as well as the First and Second, was always ready to 
obey orders, it was the luck of chance or the luck of war that 
prevented us from accompanying the First Brigade down into 
the valle}" of death. We saw them starting and knew that it 
meant death to many — and when we started in another direc- 
tion we knew not whither we were going, but like good sol- 
diers followed our leader, trusting to a kind and over-ruling. 
Providence to give us victory over death and the enemy. 

And here to-day we stand rendering homage to our comrades 
who fell in the forefront of battle twenty-seven years ago. 
The nation yet mourns their loss, but it will take another 
generation before their familiar faces will be missed at tlieir 
home firesides. 



TRANSFP^R OF THE MONUMENTS TO THE 
BATTLEFIELD MEMORIAL ASSOCIATION. 



Hon. James A. Beaver, Goveknob of the Commonwealth. 



MR. PRESIDENT : After what you have told us of the or- 
ganization of the Reserves, after what we have heard 
from those well able to tell it, of the story of its com- 
niandeis, and of the part taken in the battle hy those regi- 
mental organizations which were present, it is certainly not 
necessary, and would scarcely be becoming in me to attempt 
to say anything in regard to that famous organization. 



94 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

It seems to me, however, ladies and gentlemen, that it is en- 
tirely proper for me to speak very briefly, before the formal 
presentation of the monuments which mark the part taken by 
the Pennsylvania Keserve regiments in the battle of Gettys- 
burg, to the Gettysburg Battlefield Memorial Association, of 
the wise forethought and patriotic impulse which suggested 
the organization of that famous corps. 

No single act of any individual executive of any of the sev- 
eral states which supported the government in the war of se- 
cession displayed more of Avisdom and more of patriotism, or 
exerted a more decided influence upon the immediate and final 
results of that war, than the proclamation of our distin- 
gished chairman — then the Chief Executive of this Common- 
wealth^ — convening the Legislature of Pennsylvania in special 
session for the purpose of providing for the defense of the 
state and the future exigencies of the government. 

The prescience of the needs of the state, and the necessities 
of the nation therein exhibited, were remarkable, and, 
in view of subsequent events, almost prophetic. The grasp 
of the situation, as thus shown by the Governor, and the 
subsequent adoption and embodiment of his recommendations 
in appropriate form by the legislative branch of tlie govern- 
ment of Pennsylvania, had a controlling influence in determin- 
ing the status of Pennsylvania as one of, if not the foremost, 
defender of the Union, and in saving the country from disaster 
and her arms from disgraceful defeat. 

I do not undervalue the service of the distinguished men 
who fllled, and fllled worthily, the place of chief executive of 
our lo^al states. Their patriotic purpose, wise plans and ener- 
getic efforts, are well known and fully appreciated. It is 
nevertheless true, however, that the Governor of Pennsylva- 
nia seemed to grasp more fully and to recommend more clear- 
ly, the things which were absolutely necessary in order that 
the war might be as brief, and its inevitable results as little 
hurtful to our people as possible. When it is remembered 
that the proclamation of the Governor convening the Legisla- 
ture in extraordinary session, for the purposes therein set 
forth, was issued at a time when Pennsylvania's quota of 
troops under the first call of the President of the United 
States for seventy-five thousand men had scarcely more than 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 95 

been filled, the extraordinary character of his plans and pur- 
poses became more fiill}^ apparent. The "long line of border 
on states seriously disaffected and which must be protected," 
was clearly set forth ; and, "the necessity for furnishing ready 
support to those who liave gone out to protect our borders," 
was duly emphasized. The recommendation for "the imme- 
diate organization, disciplining and arming of at least fifteen 
regiments of infantry, exclusive of those called into the ser- 
vice of the United States," almost necessarily followed and 
was quickly consummated. 

It is needless to speculate upon the results which must have 
followed if Pennsylvania had been permitted to employ this 
magnificent bod}'^ of citizen soldierly upon her southern border, 
as was contemplated in its original organization. In its incep- 
tion, designed primarily and specially for that purpose, this 
compact and tlioroughly well-trained division would have af- 
forded ample protection to the citizens of Pennsylvania from 
the incursions made from time to time by those who were in 
armed rebellion against the authority of the general gov- 
ernment, and would have prevented the enormous losses which 
were necessarily entailed upon our people by the temporary 
invasion of hostile armies and predatory raids of hungry cav- 
alry. It is almost certain that if the Pennsylvania Eeserve 
Division had been employed in the service for which it was 
originally designed, the battle of Gettysburg would not have 
been fought. Chambersburg would not have been burned, and 
no organization of insurgent forces would ever have looked 
upon the capital of our state. 

The authorities of Pennsylvania were in advance of those of 
the general government, however, and when the necessity 
arose, true to her loyal instincts and resolves, our Eeserve 
Corps was transferred to the general service, and our border 
left to be cared for as the exigencies ■ of war might dictate. 
This first experience was sufficient to demonstrate the futility 
of the oi'ganization of any body of troops to be emploj^ed and 
maintained under state control, and subsequent events made 
this more painfully apparent. Even the large bodies of mili- 
tia, organized and equipped during the several emergencies 
when Pennsylvania's border was threatened, her territory in- 
vaded, and her citizens temporarily driven from their homes 



96 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

and subjected to great loss, were transferred as soon as placed 
in the field to the direction and control of officers of the gen- 
eral government. 

The protection of our border was not the only object of the 
organization of our Keserve Corps, however. The necessities 
of the general government, occasioned by the retirement of 
men from Pennsylvania and elsewhere, who had been mus- 
tered into the military service for three months, demanded its 
transfer to a broader and more immediate sphere of opera- 
tions, and when that demand was formally made the whole 
foice, organized and equipped under the foresight and energy 
of the Pennsylvania authorities, was transferred to and be- 
come a part, althougli a very distinctive part, of the armies of 
the United States. In consequence of that transfer, a portion 
of the regiments of the corps took part in the battle of Gettys- 
burg, as you have already heard, and we are here and now as- 
sembled to transfer to the Gettysburg Battlefield Memorial 
Association the artistic monuments which mark that service, 
and whicli will testify to the on-coming generations the faith- 
fulness and the heroism with which it was rendered. These 
monuments stand upon a conspicuous portion of the battle- 
field. They have already attracted much attention, and will 
make still more prominent and interesting that portion of the 
field. 

Peiausylvania has a right to be proud of the part taken by 
her citizen soldiery in the great battle fought upon her soil, 
and acknowledges the services thus rendered with gratitude. 
At every critical period of the conflict Pennsylvania seems to 
have been prominent, but at no time, perhaps, did her sons 
render more faithful service, and secure more abiding and sat- 
isfactory results than when the two brigades of the Pennsyl- 
vania Reserves, in the Third Division of the Fifth Corps, made 
the famous charge which saved our left flank, and gave full 
and final possession of Round Top and Little Round Top and 
their approaches to the Federal Army. This service, and that 
which was rendered by the cavalry and artillery of the Re- 
serve Corps, are commemorated by these monuments. We 
formally transfer them to the care and custody of the (Gettys- 
burg Battlefield Memorial Association. 

As the representative of the commonwealth, acting under 
the instructions of the Commissioners appointed for the erec- 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 97 

tioii of Pennsylvania's monuments upon this field, I have the 
honor to make this formal transfer, assured that no similar 
monuments commemorate more distinguished and heroic ser- 
vice. 



ACCEPTANCE OF THE MONUMENTS. 



By Breyet Major Ciiillon W. Hazzard. 
Of the Gettysburg Battlefield Memorial Association. 



What Mean These Stones V 

WE EEAD in the Bible of Joshua : How that great Gen- 
eral, in h^s campaign against Jericho, when he came to 
the Jordan, the river parted, and the children of Israel 
passed over dry shod. 

And they called the place Gilgal. 

In commemoration of this event the Lord directed Joshua 
to have one man from each tribe take up a stone, and having 
come to the other side, build there a monument. 

And the reason of it was this : So that, when your children 
ask, in time to come, "What mean these stones?" It shall be 
told them that the Lord showed his favor to the children of 
Israel. 

The monument set up at Gilgal was to "tell the story" to 
the children in time to come. 

You are here to-day to set up a pile of stones, as did Israel 
at Gilgal, to tell the story to those who may come after you, 
and who will ask, "What mean tliese stones?" 

Before we answer the question let us journey upon the 
earth, and make the same inquiry of other monuments that 
have been builded by the children of men. 

Let us start as Gilgal and go over by the Nile. There stand 
the pyramids. What mean these stones? They mean that 
Ramesis, in his ambition to be remembered forever, built the 
pyramids as monuments for himself and his wives that his 



98 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

name should never be forgotten. It was human endeavor to 
buy with riches eternal fame. How absolutely it failed. Not 
only has his name faded from the memory of men, but he him- 
self was not even buried there. When, forty centuries later, 
the tomb is forced, the sepulcher is empty. 

We stand beside the Grecian Acropolis at Athens and ask, 
"What mean these stones?" The answer comes, "This was 
once a pile of beauty — the most famous of its kind in all his- 
tory—set up to perpetuate the greatness of the land of art. and 
philosophy; the intellectual leader of the classic world. 

The Acropolis is in ruins. Greece is a power no more. 

We stand beside the Coliseum at Rome, and ask, "What 
mean these stones?" They mean that Rome was once the mis- 
tress of the world, her emperors all powerful, her armies in- 
vincible; they mean that this power, unchecked by Christian 
influences, became cruel, and that within the walls of the 
great amphitheatre, Christian martyrs were "butchered to 
make a Roman holiday." 

When the children of men stand beside the foundation 
stones of the Obelisks along the Nile, they ask, "What mean 
these stones?" The story is soon told. An Egyptian princess 
carved the record of her beauty and her riches upon the Cleo- 
patrian Needles, and set them up to remain for all time. Now 
one stands by the Thames, the other by the Hudson, and they 
tell no story to anyone, save that personal greatness, even 
though writ on granite, will not live forever. 

We go to Waterloo, stand beside the lion's mound, and ask, 
"What mean these stones?" The answer comes, they mean 
the end of ambition, the end of a conqueror's thirst for blood. 
They mean that there is a Waterloo for every mere personal 
thirst for fame alone, and that France and freedom were to 
live for each other. 

We stand before the German monument of "Victory" on the 
Konigsplatz and ask, "What mean these stones?" They mean 
the re-unification of Germany and the foundation of a new em- 
pire. They tell to Germany the daring deeds of a long-gone 
past, when the tribes slew the forces of Varus in the defiles, 
and sent him back to Rome to meet the sorrowful greeting of 
Augustus, "Oh, Varus, Varus ! give me back my legions." But 
they tell of no slave set free, no bonds broken, no enlargement 
of human liberty; they tell that the dynasty of HohenzoUern 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburcj. 99 

is established. And while Emperor William died the oldest 
sovereign in the world, and the most striking figure of the 
nineteenth century, yet the pile by the Kouigsplatz tells only 
of the divine right of kings, the aristocrac}' of the Kaiser, and 
the servitude of subjects. By that pile of stones we catch no 
glimpse of the inalienable right to life, liberty and the pursuit 
of happiness. 

We come to Bunker Hill monument and ask, "Wliat mean 
these stones?'' They mean that there is to be no government 
on this soil with taxation without representation; they mean 
that our forefathers ''brought forth on this continent a nation 
conceived in liberty and dedicated to the proposition that all 
men are created equal." 

We stand beside Bartholdi's statue of Liberty Enlightening 
the World, and, with our hands upon its broad foundation, ask, 
''What mean these stones?" They mean that Columbia stands 
with beacon light to welcome the oppressed of every land and 
every clime; welcome them to our hearts and our homes; wel- 
come them to the legacy of our freedom and our glory — to an 
undivided country and an unsullied flag. 

And now we have come to-day to stand beside these monu- 
ments, these granite markers, set up by the Commonwealth 
of Pennsylvania for the flower of its soldiery, for its gallant 
Eeserve Corps. And when the children of men come and ask, 
"What mean tbese stones?" the answer will not be — -they tell 
us of Curtin, of McCall, of Meade, and Keynolds, and Ord. and 
Crawford ; of Biddle, Eoberts and McCandless, and Gallagher ; 
of Sickel and Talley, Mann and Woodward, and Simmons and 
Fisher; of Ent, and Sinclair, and Henderson and Baily; of 
Jackson, and McCalmont, and McCoy ; of Taggart, and Hardin, 
and Hartshorne; of Bayard, and Taylor, Easton, Cooper and 
Eicketts, nor of a hundred others as daring and as noble. 

The answer will not be — they will tell us of Dranesville 
where the Eeserve Corps fought and won a victory all its own, 
nor of Mechanicsville, nor of Gaines' Mill, nor New Market, 
nor Malvern, nor Bull Bun, nor South Mountain; they tell no 
story of Antietam, nor Fredericksburg, nor Bristoe; no story 
of Mine Eun, nor the Wilderness, nor Spotsylvania, nothing of 
the North Anna, nor of Bethesda Church. These stones will 
not even tell to the children of men how the Beservefs fought 
here at Gettysburg. 



100 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

No — the deeds of men, though writ in granite, fade away. 

For ages the school children of Greece were taught to re- 
peat from memory the names of the three hundred who fell at 
Thermopylae. Who can tell them now? 

What, then, ivill these stones tell to the children of men? 
The answer has been given by immortal lips. They will tell 
of Pennsylvanians who died here that this Government of the 
people shall not perish forever from the earth. These stones, 
these monuments, will say to the children of men, as Abraham 
Lincoln said when he dedicated yonder monument: ''Gather 
ye here increased devotion to the cause for which they gave 
their lives." 

And now, in the name of the Gettysburg Battlefield Memo- 
rial Association, we accept these monuments, and will give 
them our tenderest care. 



SEEVICES OF THE GETTYSBUEG KESERVES AT 
GETTYSBURG. 



AT a meeting of the survivors of the Pennsylvania Reserves, 
held at Reading, Penna., June 7, 1886, the following reso- 
lution was offered by Colonel P. McDonough, Second 
Reserves, and unanimously adopted : 

Whereas, On the second day of the battle of Gettysburg the Pennsylvania 
Reserves, then forming part of Meade's reserve, were ordered to Little 
Round Top to save that position, the key of the line of battle, from the 
then victorious enemy who had driven back the Third Corps under General 
Sickles and the regulars of their own, the Fifth Corps, under General 
Sykes ; and. 

Whereas, By a counter-charge of the Reserves they met and drove the 
enemy from said position and across the meadow beyond the stone wall, 
which they wrested from them, and thus saved the day, if not the battle; 
and. 

Whereas, In many of the accounts of that day's fighting great injustice 
has been done the services of the Reserves, they being in said accounts rep- 
resented as occupying a position farther to the right and not on Little 
Round Top, and taking but little part in said action ; now that justice be 
done to the memory of the grand old division, 




POSITIONS AND LINES OF C?L\HGES OF 
THE PENNS\T,VANL\RESERVES. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 101 

Resolved, By the Pennsylvania Reserve Association, that a committee of 
seven be appointed by the president to prepare a full and truthful account 
of the part taken by the division in said battl" and submit the same to the 
association at its next annual meeting. 

The president appointed the following-named as the committee: 

Major E. M. Woodward^ Second Reserves, Chairman. 

Colonel W. Ross Hartshorne, Bucktails. 

Colonel Robert A. McCoy, Eleventh Reserves. 

Major J. A. McPiierran, Fifth Reserves. 

Colonel R. Bruce Ricketts, First Reserve Artillery. 

Wallace W. Johnston, Sixth Reserves. 

Colonel P. McDonough, Second Reserves. 

John Taylor, kiecretary. 



KEPORT OF THE COMMITTEE. 



THE committee, recognizing the importance of the trust 
confided to them, the many years that had elapsed since 

the battle, and that the best memory is apt to be cov- 
ered with the dust of time, at once determined to exhaust all 
sources of information within their reach, and while getting 
at the facts as near as possible, to admit no statement that 
could not be clearly established. For this purpose a portion 
of the committee met on Little Eound Top on the following 2d 
of July, and, accompanied by General Crawford, Major Chillon 
Hazzard, and others, they had no trouble in locating the posi- 
tion of the First Brigade, from which it started upon its 
charge twenty-three years before, or in tracing its steps 
through all its movements on the field. A portion of the com- 
mittee remained upon the ground several days, and others of 
it have since examined the field, in company with many com- 
rades gathered there during the encampment of the Grand 
Army of the Eepublic, and reported the information gained 
to the chairman. It was also deemed of importance that a 
measurement of the distances of the charges made and other 
important parts of the field should be made, for which purpose 
one of the committee, during the winter, visited the field, and, 

8 



102 Pennsylvania at Gettyshnrg. 

with chain and compass, accomplished the work, the results of 
which have been embodied in the report. 

In regard to the misstatements that have appeared in print 
from time to time, and the injustice done our division, the com- 
mittee deepi it unnecessary to refer, believing the true history 
of that great battle is yet to be written, and trusting with full 
confidence to the ultimate prevailment of truth. They, liow- 
ever, deem it proper to refer, to some extent, to the articles 
published in the Philadelphia Press of August 4, 1886, entitled 
"The Federal Disaster on the Left," and on October 20, 1886, 
entitled ''McLaws' Division and the Pennsylvania Reserves on 
the Second Day at Gettysburg," by "Lafayette McLaws, Major- 
General commanding McLaws Division, Longstreet's Corps." 
The first article was a reply to Major-General Sickles' Gettys- 
burg address, delivered in that town July 2, 1886. In it Sic- 
kles says, 'When the battle of the 2d ended * * * Craw- 
ford's division of Pennsylvania Reserves held the advanced 
ground I had occupied as far as the stone fence beyond the 
wheat-field (italics the com.) ; and this ground, so gallantly 
won by Crawford and his splendid division, he held all night 
and next day, and until the retreat of Lee." (Crawford's official 
report.) One of the maps, prepared by Brevet Major-General 
Charles K. Graham, accompanying Sickles' speech, as printed 
in the National Trihune, July 22, 1886, also places Crawford's 
Division on the west side of the wheat-field, which doubtlessly 
was an unintentional mistake, as we will show we occupied 
the stone wall on the east side of the wheat-field. This error 
must be kept in mind in reading both articles of McLaws'. Gen- 
eral McLaws, after quoting the above in his article of August 
4, utterly denies the charge of the Reserves and the capture 
of the stone wall. Quoting from him, he says, "I saw Wof- 
ford's Brigade * * * emerge from the woods (evidently 
Rose's on the west side of the wheat-field) through which it 
had charged, and I halted it, and asked what was the matter. 
He said that he had been ordered back hj General Longstreet ; 
that he had driven everything in his front and was resting 
under shelter of a stone wall at foot of Round Top when or- 
dered back; that there was no necessity for his coming." 
Further on he says, "Up to 11 p. m. there v/as no advance made 
against Semmes' Brigade (evidently at the Devil's Den), and as 
that command could see all over the ground from which Gen- 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 103 

eral Wofford retired, the}^ could tell if any Pennsylvania Re- 
serves or any other body of men advanced on that day, the 2d, 
to re-occui)y the ground left vacant by Woflford. I feel war- 
ranted in saying that there was no advance on the 2d by the 
Federals to re-take the positions won from them on that day." 

This article was ably replied to by General Crawford, in the 
Press, in which he gave the movements of our division on both 
days with accurac3^ His reply evoked from General McLaws 
his second article of October 20, in which he substantiates, in 
his own opinion, his statements in his first article. The gen- 
eral says, ''I accordingly formulated a series of questions 
which would cover the claim made by General Crawford, and 
sent a copy to General Wofford, whose reply was never re- 
ceived ; to General Humphreys, who commanded the Twenty- 
first Mississippi, in Barksdale's Brigade; to General Bryan, 
who commanded a regiment in General Wofford's Brigade in 
the charge of the 2d; * * * to Colonel McGlosking, [Mc- 
Glashan], colonel in Semmes' Brigade on the 2d, and others," 
General Humphreys is quoted as saying, "Wofford's Brigade 
was not driven back, nor did they go back because they were 
afraid to fight. Wofford must have gone back by order from 
some superior authority. * * * j ^jd not know of the 
Pennsylvania Reserves under Crawford." 

General Goode Bryan saj^s, "I can and do most positively 
assert that my command was not driven back, * * * and 
I further assert that I received the order to fall back from a 
courier of General Longstreet. * * » i fii^o positively as- 
sert that there was no enemy on our rir/Jit or front to cause us 
to fall hack J' (Italics McLaws'.) 

Colonel McGlosking, or McGlashan, who evidently was at 
the Devil's Den, or to their right of it, says, ''It was now dark, 
but we could distinctly hear great confusion on Little Round 
Top,^ — the men hastih^ thro^ving up rock intrenchments, the 
officers cursing * * *." 

He mistook Little for Big Round Top, where he heard the 
tumult of Fisher's assault. Further on he says, "At no time 
after the first struggle were our lines attacked by any fresh 
troops of the enemy. * * * j positively assert that no at- 
tack was made by General Crawford's Division on any portion 
of the line. 

'*I am aware that Wofford, at the extreme line of his ad- 



104 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

vauce, received by some mistake (?) an order from General 
Longstreet to retire. * * * General Crawford may have 
made such advance, but there was no serious fighting at the 
stone fence. Wofford's retreat was by order, and executed 
without fighting or being pursued, as far as I could see, and 
was stopped b}^ General McLaws in person, as soon as the mis- 
take was discovered, * * * but it left me powerless to 
continue the advance." 

McLaws says, "On our left was Woff'ord, but separated from 
us by the Vheat-field,' which was thinly covered by straggling 
men from Wofford and Semmes, and possibly a few of Ker- 
shaw's." 

We have quoted in full to give General McLaws the advan- 
tage of his own statements, but the committee can hardly com- 
prehend how honorable geutlemen, who doubtless sincerely be- 
lieved in the correctness of their statements, could have al- 
lowed the dust of time to so completely settle on their mem- 
ory. The committee recognizes tliat in weighing the conflict- 
ing statements, fair-minded people will consider the evidence 
of General McLaws as entitled to as much credence as that of 
General Crawford; that the Confederate officers's statements 
equals that of your committee. Therefore, the scales being 
thus equally balanced in the minds of impartial readers, the 
committee had to seek other testimonj' to substantiate their 
position, and they are happy to say that it is of such a nature 
that the positive assertions of General McLaws will be laid 
out as flat as the Keserves laid out his regiments and brigade 
on those memorable days. 

Captain George W. H. Stouch, Third Eegiment, U. S. In- 
fantry, now stationed at Fort Shaw, Montana Territory, who, 
at Gettysburg, was Sergeant-Major of the Eleventh U. S. In- 
fantry, writes to the committee: ''On the 2d of July our regi- 
ment, then belonging to the Second Brigade, Second Division, 
Fifth Corps, moved from the northwest slope of Little Eound 
Top nearly to the wheatfield, when it changed direction to the 
left and was advancing in this new direction, when our right 
flank was turned by the Confederates. We fell back in great 
confusion, and were driven to Little Eound Top, followed by 
the enemy that had been in our front, and also by those on our 
flank. While falling back, I, with Lieutenants Pettee and 
Elder, and others, were captured by Wofl'ord's Brigade and 



Pennsylvania at GettyshKr;/. 105 

ordered behind a large rock for shelter. 1. could see distinctly 
over the wheat-field, and am certain there was no organized 
bodies of Confederates in sui)port of those who had chai-ged 
past us, nor were there any considerable bodies of stragglers. 
Some twenty of the enemy were with us behind the rock for 
some ten minutes, when they were ordered to advance. Some 
of them said they belonged to the Tenth Georgia, Semmes' 
Brigade. Some twenty minutes after our capture 1 heard the 
cheers of our men as they charged from Little Round Top, and 
in a few minutes the rebs ran past us, and in such haste as not 
to take us with them. A sharp-shooter, posted behind a rock, 
immediately opened fire on us, killing one and wounding my- 
self and Sergeant Price. In a few minutes, however, we were 
recaptured by the Bucktails. Seeing that this man loaded, 
aimed and fired as rapidly as possible, and conceding even that 
it took two minutes for him to fire the three shots mentioned, 
viz., from the time we were uncovered by the enemy until we 
were re-captured, it would hardly be conceived that a body of 
organized troops, falling back in obedience to orders, and in 
regular formation, would be followed by the enemy at such a 
close interval of time. General Crawford's forces at this time 
charged beyond the stone wall and re-occupied the ground 
from which the Second Division, Fifth Corps, had been driven." 

Professor M. Jacobs of the Pennsylvania College, Gettys- 
burg, who was within the Confederate lines during the battle, 
and who published "Notes of the Eebel Invasion," J. B. Lippin- 
cott Company, Philadelphia, 1864, in speaking of that 
day, says, on page 37, ''To us, however, who were at the time 
within the rebel lines, the result seemed doubtful. * * * 
At about 6 p. m., it is true, we heard 'cheering' different 
from that which had so often fallen dolefully upon our ears, 
and some of the rebels said to each other, 'Listen ! the Yankees 
are cheering.' But whilst this — Avhich we afterwards found 
to be the cheering of General Crawford's men, as they charged 
and drove the rebels down the face of Little Round Top — af- 
forded us a temporary encouragement." « * * 

We will now see what General McLaws says of July 3d. In 
his article of August 4th we find : 

"As for the assertions that the Pennsylvania Reserves drove 
Hood's Division back on the 3d, I know that no such thing was 
done, as up to the time the order was given to retire there was 



100 Pennsylvania at Oettyshurg. 

no liring, neither by Hood's Division nor by mine, nor was 
there any infantry firing from the other side. * * * Hood's 
Division retired because ordered back, and perhaps recede*] in 
more haste than mine did, because the order for it to go was 
not given, so the commander told me, until after my division 
had gone; and, as the positions I abandoned were filled bj' the 
enemy (perhaps by the Penns3dvania Keserves), they came in 
on the flank of Hood, and his left brigade had to go in double- 
quick. That the Pennsylvania Eeserves there took after tliem 
perhaps is true. * * * My division and Hood's most cer- 
tainly occupied the ground from which thej^ drove General 
Sickles' Corps on the 2d of July until after Pickett's charge on 
the 3d, and this was done without any attempt being made 
to recover it by any opposing forces; and the several Confed- 
erate commanders were resting quietly in their occupancy 
when * * * Ave were ordered back to the main line. * *." 

In McLaws' article of October 20, he quotes Colonel McGlos- 
king [McGlashan] as follows: 

"On the 3d, about 2 p. m., we were ordered to retire to our 
original position, and did so quietly and unmolested by the 
enemy, leaving behind us the stacks of arms above mentioned." 

Further on, the colonel, speaking of Semmes' and Kershaw's 
Brigades, then stationed in Eose's woods, says : "They remain- 
ed unmolested in their positions gained on the 2d until or- 
dered to retire on the 3d of July. After they retired, the 
enemy advanced and occupied the grounds vacated, but not en- 
tirel3^ Benning's and Anderson's Brigades, on being notified 
of the order to withdraw that General McLaAvs had received, 
the enemy, coming on the grounds vacated by McLaws' Divi- 
sion, Avere thus full on the flank of Hood's Division, and the 
brigades of Benning and Anderson being nearest, had to va- 
cate their grounds hurriedly." 

General McLaAvs then says, "From the foregoing statements 
you will perceive that it would be impossible for me to say 
that my command Avas driven back to the advance of General 
Crawford's forces along any portion of the line held by me on 
the 2d of July or on the 3d; but, on the contrary, Avhatever 
retrograde movement was made Avas done by order of author- 
ity superior to those immediately commanding the troops 
Avhich retired." 

In refutation, to all these denials of General McLaws and 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 107 

his officers, the committee states that, in answer to theii' in- 
quiry, Brigadier-General R. C. Drum, Adjutant-General U. S. 
A., under date of November 29, 1887, informs them that the 
flag of the Fifteenth Georgia Infantry was captured at Gettys- 
burg, July 3, 1863, by Sergeant James B. Thompson, company 
"G," First Kifles (Bucktails), and was then in custody of his 
office; that a medal of honor was awarded to Sergeant Thomp- 
son; and that the lecoids show that over two hundred i)iis- 
oners and many arms weie captured by Crawford's Division on 
said day. 

Though this does not seem to conlirm the statement of Mc- 
Laws that '* they remained unmolested and in their position," 
it seems to corroborate his remark that they "had to vacate 
their ground hurriedly." 

This rather remarkable statement, taken in connection with 
what follows it, we also find in General McLaw's article of Oc- 
tober 20: ''General Longstreet informs me that General Ciaw- 
ford sought an interview with him * * * and asked him 
'what troops of his (Longstreet's) he (Crawford) had driven 
back at Gettysburg,' and that he (Longstreet) replied that he 
could not tell him, as he was not' aware that any one had at- 
tacked him at Gettysburg. 

On the twenty-fifth anniversary of the third day's fight, at 
Gettysburg, Generals Lorrgstreet, Sickles arrd Crawford rode 
in a carriage together over the battlefield. 

''The carriage drove orr to the foot of Little Round Top, aird 
the talk turned on the attack by the Pennsylvania Reserves, 
after the failrrre of Pickett's charge, rrpon that portiorr of 
Lorrgstreet's forces, which were in the Avoods opposite the 
Round Tops. Gerreral Crawford described, at the reqrrest of 
the others, the movement of his force, and recalled a state- 
ment that has been made in answer to a pirblished account of 
his, that all of Longstreet's rrren had been withdraAvn from 
those woods before the attack by tlie Pennsylvania Reserves 
was irrade. He asked General Longstreet to explain how this 
could be, wherr the Pennsylvania Reserves, in recovering the 
ground lost orr the second clay, had captured a large nrrnrber 
of prisoners as well as the battle-flag of the Fifteenth Georgia. 

" 'I cair explain that at once,' replied General Lorrgstreet. 
'After Pickett's repulse and the subseqrrent modification of 
our lines, it was deterrrrined to withdraw McLaws' and I^aw's 



108 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

Divisions from those woods in front of the Round Tops. Mc- 
Laws understood the order and complied with it, but Law mis- 
understood and remained, and you struck Benning's Brigade 
of his division, which contained the Georgia regiments' " — 
Philadelphia Sunday Press, July 8, 1888. 

The committee, while submitting their report, and believing 
that every man of the Reserves who was in the battle will 
freely bear testimony to its correctness, know that it must 
stand the test of criticism of future historians. They have 
no fear of that criticism, but submit it with confidence to the 
impartial. 



THE RESERVES AT GETTYSBURG. 



ABOUT three o'clock on the aftemoon of July 1, 1863, the 
Pennsylvania Reserves crossed the line, and entering 
the State laid down in a wood. The division was com- 
manded by Brigadier-General S. Wylie Crawford, U. S. Volun- 
teers, Major U. S. Army. His staff consisted of, — 

Major James P. Speer, Acting Assistant Inspector-General, 

Captain R. T. Auchmuty, Assistant Adjutant-General. 

Captain Louis Livingston, Additional Aide-de-Camp. 

Lieutenant Richard P. Henderson, Aide-de-Camp. 

Lieutenant William Harding, Ordnance Officer. 

Captain Philip L. Fox, Assistant Quartermaster. 

Major Louis W. Read, Surgeon and Medical Director. 

The brigades were: 

The First, Colonel William McCandless, Second Reserve, 
with staff as follows : 

Captain Joseph R. T. Coates, First Reserve, Acting Assist- 
ant Inspector-General. 

Lieutenant William A. Hoyt, Second Reserve, Acting As- 
sistant Adjutant-General. 

Lieutenant John Taylor, Second Reserve, Aide-de-Camp. 

Lieutenant James B. Goodman, Sixth Reserve, Aide-de- 
Camp. 

Lieutenant John A. Waggoner, First Reserve, Brigade Quar- 
termaster. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 109 

Lieuteimnt A. A. Scudder, Sixth Reserve, Brigade Commis- 
sary. 

The regiments were as follows : 

First Rifles, "Bucktails," Colonel Charles Frederick Taylor. 

First Infantry, Colonel William Cooper Talley. 

Second Infantry, Lieutenant-Colonel George A. Woodward. 

Sixth Infantry, Colonel Wellington H. Ent. 

The Third,* Colonel Joseph W. Fisher, Fifth Reserve, with 
staff as follows : 

Captain Hartle}^ Howard, Acting Assistant Inspector-Gen- 
eral. 

Lieutenant John L. Wright, Acting Assistant Adjutant-Gen- 
eral. 

Lieutenant Charles K. Chamberlain, Aide-de-Camp. 

Lieutenant William H. H. Kern, Aide-de-Camp. 

Captain George Norris, Brigade Quartermaster. 

Lieutenant Samuel Evans, Brigade Commissary. 

Major Joseph A. Phillips, Brigade Surgeon. 

The regiments were as follows: 

Fiftli Infantry, Lieutenant-Colonel George Dare. 

Ninth Infantry, Lieutenant-Colonel James McK. Snodgrass. 

Tenth Infantry, Colonel Adoniram J. Warner. 

Eleventh Infantry, Colonel Samuel M. Jackson. 

Twelfth Infantry, Colonel Martin D. Hardin, U. S. Army. 

At dark that night the division was put in motion, and after 
a rapid and fatiguing march, near daylight were laid to rest, 
but hardly an eye closed ere the drums of reveille beat. While 
in motion the news of the defeat of the First Corps and the 
death of General Reynoldsf was received, depressing the 
spirits of the men, but strengthening their resolutions for the 
fight. At noon, after marching forty miles with but two 
hours' sleep we reached Rock Creek, and, tiling to the left 



*Tlie Seconrl Brigade, Colonel Horatio G. Sickel, Third Reserve, was detained by 
tlic authorities within the defenses of Washington. It participated with honor in 
Qeneral Ocorse Crook's campaign :n West Virginia. Colonel Sickel was promoted 
Brevet Major-General U. S. V., and was severely wounded near the close of the war. 

tin the ambulance-wagon of the First Brigade was secretly stored a magnificent 
sword for presentation to General Reynolds. The General had consented to receive it 
upon being assured it was from the enlisted men only of that brigade, and that no 
otlicer would be connected with it. A note was addressed asking him, in the lull of the 
comnig battle, to receive the gift direct from the boys, one being chosen from each 
regiment to await an opportunity to present it to him on the field. Subsequently it 
was presented by Sergeant W. Hayes Grier, Fifth Regiment, to the general's sister, 
the wife of Captain Henry D. I-ancJis, 



110 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

from the Baltimore pike, joined our corps, the Fifth, Major- 
General Sykes, in rear and in support of the right of the line 
of battle. 

About 4 o'clock, General Crawford, seeing the First and 
Second Divisions of our corps moving to the left, followed 
through the woods to the cross-road' leading to the Emmits- 
burg road. Here the division was massed in the right rear of 
Little Bound Top, in and near the old brier patch. Soon after 
General Crawford, by order, sent the Third Brigade, Colonel 
Fisher's, with the exception of the Eleventh Eeserve, to Big 
Eound Top to succor General Vincent, they marching by the 
left flank. At the same time the First Brigade, Colonel Mc- 
Candless, was moved to the western slope of Little Eound 
Top and massed in column of regiments, left in front, the Elev- 
enth Eeserve being the head of the column. 

Little Eound Top, rising two hundred and eighty feet above 
the general water-level of tlie streariis which drain the valley 
at its base, like Big Eound Top, nearly south of it and four 
hundred feet high, is of volcanic origin, crowned with wood 
growing amid bowlders of syenite. The two hills, seven hun- 
dred yards from crest tb crest, are separated by a deep rocky 
depression, and form perfect forts covering our left flank, they 
being the key-points of the whole battlefield. The western 
slope of Little Eound Top sinks to a little stream called Plum 
Run, which drains a swampy meadow. • This run gradually as 
sumes the character of a rivulet as it enters the precincts of 
the Devil's Den, another chaotic distribution of bowlders. 
The ^'Den," in an angle of this and a contributory stream that 
flows from Seminary Eidge, is one hundred and eighty feet 
above the water-level and five hundred yards due west of Little 
Eound Top. Its eastern slope is steep; its western, prolonged 
as a ridge. Its northern extremitj^ is composed of huge rocks 
and bowlders, forming innumerable crevices and holes, from 
the largest of which it derives its name. Plum Eun Valley, 
three hundred and fifty yards broad, is marshy but strewed 
with bowlders, as is also the slopes of the Eound Top. Tliese 
afl'ord lurking-places for a multitude of sharp-shooters, whom, 
from the difficulties of the ground, it was impossible to dis- 
lodge, so that at the close of the battle these hiding-places, and 
especially the "Den," were filled with dead and wounded men 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. Ill 

of the coiiteudiiig armies. Extending northward from the 
"Deu," beyond and on the western side of Plum Run Valley 
and partially between the valley and the wheat-field, is a low 
ridge terminating in "Houck's Hill." From near the ''Den'' a 
stone wall runs over the "hill," through the level and beyond 
the "cross-road," it bordering on the then eastern edge of 
Trostle's woods. This wall, which runs nearly northeast on 
the wheat-field side, was fringed with heavy timber from the 
"Den" to the woods at the "cross-roads." The distance from 
the "den" to the "cross-road" is five hundred and eighty-three 
yards. This ''cross-road," skirting the northern slope of Lit- 
tle Round Top, extends northwesterly to the Emmitsburg 
road, in the southeasterly intersection of which is the peach- 
orchard, fourteen hundred and fifty yards from Little Round 
Top. This "cross-road" separates the wheatfield from Tros- 
tle's woods. This woods, four hundred yards long, is sepa- 
rated at its western end b}^ the "cross-road" and a brief inter- 
val from Rose's woods, which sweeps to the southerly and to 
the easterly back to Devil's Den, enclosing the wheat-field on 
the westerly and southerly sides. The wheatfield is two hun- 
dred and twenty-two yards along the stone wall, three hundred 
and sixty-one yards next to Trostle's woods, four hundred and 
forty-four yards along Rose's woods, and five hundred yards 
on the southwesterly side, containing about twenty-five acres. 

Into the depression between the Round Tops, Law's Brigade 
of Alabaraians, supported by Robertson's Texans, had forced 
themselves, and were advancing to the possession of the Tops, 
when they were met by Vincent's Brigade of Barnes' Division 
of our corps, that had been posted there by General Warren, 
where the struggle became severe and protracted. 

As before stated, the Third Brigade had gone to the assist- 
ance of Vincent, and the First was massed on Little Round 
Top; but a very short time after these movements were made 
the situation in our front changed rapidly. Sickles, who had 
been severelv^ wounded, and who had been struggling for hours 
on his line, extending from the Devil's Den around to the 
wheatfield and beyond the peach orchard, was at last over- 
powered and swept away. Aj'res' Division of regulars of our 
corps, which had been sent to his aid, had gallantly held the 
stone wall, but was driven from it and forced over the vallev. 



112 Prunsylvania at Gettysburg. 

All the UnioD lines in our front were irrevocably broken. The 
valley was covered with fugitives from all divisions, who 
rushed through our lines and along the road to the rear. Frag- 
ments of regiments came back in disorder and without arms. 
A section of a German battery, whose horses had all been 
killed, was abandoned by the gunners immediately in front 
of the right and left of the Eleventh and Sixth Reserves, and 
for a time all seemed lost. Close on these fugitives came the 
enemy, his lines irregular but massed here and there and his 
colors flying. 

While this scene was passing before our eyes, the brigade, 
McCandless', wdth the Eleventh Reserve of Fisher's Brigade, 
formed into two lines, the first being composed of the Sixth 
on the right, with their left resting on the "cross-road," the 
Eleventh in the center, and the First on the left. The second 
line was massed on the first; the Second Reserve on the right, 
and tlie Bucktails on the left. Before this movement could 
be fully executed, our front was practically uncovered by the 
fugitives, and the enemy, recognizing the unexpected ob- 
stacle, came direct for us. The first line opened a destructive 
fire at short range, the Eleventh using "buck and ball," some 
of their muskets having the buckshot of several cartridges in 
them. 

The brigade was still left in front, facing by the rear ranks. 
In fact, so sudden had been the change in our front, we had 
not time to assume our pioper formation. There cannot be 
tlie least doubt in the minds of those who knew the exact state 
of affairs upon the field at that time, that a few moments de- 
lay in our ariival on Little Round Top, the key of the field 
would have been lost, and very probably the battle of Gettys- 
burg would have closed that night. On the left of the second 
line. Colonel Taylor, not realizing the position, undertook 
to countermarch the Bucktails, which movement was also at- 
tempted b}' the Second, but in the confusion of the movement 
they suddenl}^ found themselves confronted and mixed up 
with the charging enemy. In the short but desparate melee 
that followed, the greater part of these two regiments charged 
without firing a shot. So far up the slope were the enemy, 
that the gunners of Hazlett's Battery on the crest were pre- 
paring to spike their guns, but this movement encouraged 
them not to do so. The right of the line had fired three or 



Pennsylvania at Oettjjshurf/. 113 

four rounds, when Crawford called on the men, "in the name 
of Pennsylvania," to charge. A loud cheer broke from the 
boys as down the slope they moved, and breaking into a 
double-quick they swept all before them over the valley and 
up to the stone wall, w^here a short but desperate struggle en- 
sued. But soon their banners mounted over it and into the 
wheatfield, where, by orders, they halted. On the slope and 
in crossing the valley the Bucktails and Second inclined to 
the left to meet a heavy lire coming from that direction, thus 
extending our line to the full brigade front. So heavy was 
this fire, and so tbreatening were the enemy on our left, that 
four companies of the Bucktails, under their major, dropped 
behind some rocks which afforded some protection to that 
Hank, The other six companies advanced over "Houck's Hill" 
in line with the brigade, until they took and crossed the stone 
wall where Colonel Taylor fell, shot through the heart. Colo 
nel Taylor and several officers, with fifteen or twenty men 
were on the extreme left at the time, and had just discovered 
some two or three hundred of the enemy but a short distance 
away. He promptly demanded their surrender, when nearly 
every man threw down his arms. Just then a Confederate in 
the rear cried out, with an oath, 'M'll never surrender to a cor- 
poral's guard." Most of them again grasped their arms, and 
it was by this fire the colonel was killed. The quick fire of the 
breech-loading rifles induced some thirty or forty to surrender, 
the others retreating to the Devil's Den. 

Lieutenant-Colonel Niles being severely wounded, Major 
Hartshorne succeeded to the command of the "Bucktails," and 
sent Captain Kinsey with his company to the left to throw out 
skirmishers at right angles with the regiment. As they ap- 
proached the "Den" they were met with a heavy fire, and the 
men taking cover, a lively skirmish ensued. Soon after sev- 
eral shells exploded in their midst, followed by a volley from 
the enemy. Captain Kinsey was severely wounded by a shell, 
and several men were killed and wounded. It now being dark 
the line was withdrawn a considerable distance, and a strong 
picket established on the left flank and rear. A brisk flre was 
kept up along the left of the line until about ten o'clock when 
it ceased, seemingly by mutual consent. 

We were then far in advance of our main line, without im- 
mediate support, with the enemy in force on our left rear, and 



114 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

a heavy wood on our right front, extending up to the enemy's 
line, affording a covered approach. A strong line of pickets 
were thrown out into the wheatfield and wood in front, and 
on both right and left flanks, well to the rear. Colonel Jack- 
son, of the Eleventh, sent Captain Mills with a portion of his 
company to prevent the enemy removing an abandoned bat- 
tery through the night. The whole line lay down behind the 
stone wall and took such rest as they could under the circum- 
stances. General Crawford and staff slept that night with 
the brigade. Lieutenant-Colonel Woodward, on account of 
wounds received at Glendale, was unable to accompany his 
regiment from Little Eound Top, but slept that night at the 
stone wall. The regiment in its charges was led by Major P. 
McDonough. 

Nearly one-half our loss during the engagement was from 
the severity of the enemy's fire before we charged. Lieuten- 
ant-Colonel Porter and Lieutenant Fulton and a number of 
men were wounded, and Lieutenant John O'Harra Wood and 
several men of the Eleventh were killed before they delivered 
their first volley. The same to a less extent occurred in all 
the regiments. When the section of the battery was aban- 
doned on our right-front the officer in command ordered the 
guns to be spiked. This was prevented by Lieutenant John 
McWilliams, of the Sixth. Early the next morning the cap- 
tain of the battery came over to the stone wall and said, "The 

Pennsylvania Reserves saved mine pattery, py . I gets 

you fellers all drunk.'' His good intentions were duly ap- 
plauded. 

About the time Fisher was sent to the left. Strong Vincent, 
the general commanding at that point, was mortally wounded, 
and General Stephen H. Weed, commanding a brigade, and 
Captain Hazlett, the battery on Little Round Top, were killed. 
Colonel Rice had succeeded to the command. The left of his 
line was resting just at the eastern edge of the valley or de- 
pression between the Round Tops. Fisher placed the Fifth 
and Twelfth Reserves immediately in the rear of this line, and 
the Eighth, Ninth and Tenth across the depression, covering 
Rice's left flank. The severe fighting at this point was over, 
the enemy repulsed, appearing to shift to their left, on to 
Little Round Top. Colonel Fisher, in a communication to 
the committee, says: "I soon discovered that Big Round Top 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 115 

was iu possession of the enemy's sharp-shooters, aud seeing 
the annoyance they were to us, and the great importance of 
the position, as a key of our position, I said to Colonel lUce, 
•I will take that hill to-night.' To this proposition he as- 
sented, and proposed joining in the undertaking. Seeing that 
three regiments were all that could be conveniently employed, 
aud having but two regiments that 1 could use without weak- 
ening Rice's support Colonel Eice directed Colonel Chamber- 
lain, with the Twentieth Maine, to report to me. Learning 
that this regiment was armed with Springfield rifles, T di- 
rected Chamberlain to deploy it as skirmishers, as my legi- 
nients, the Fifth, Lieutenant-Colonel Dare and the Twelfth, 
Colonel Hardin, we^e armed with altered Harper's Ferry mus- 
kets. Iir the meantime I had sent staff oflQcers to report to 
Generals Sykes and Crawford my proposed movements. Gen- 
eral Crawford, however, arriving upon the groirnds and ap- 
proving my plan, directed me to 'move up at once.' The line 
advanced as best it coirld in the dark, up the rough side, driv- 
ing the enemy before it and captrrring over thirty prisoners, 
from some of whom they learned that 'they were just iu time,' 
as the Confederates had sent them Avord to hold the hill, as 
they were organizing a force to occupy it." Colonel Fislier 
remained in this position irntil the morning of the -Ath, when 
he was relieved by General Wright, of the Sixth Corps. 

At the first dawn of light the next morning, the 3d, skirmish- 
ing commenced in our front and was continued throughout the 
day, we remaining behind the stone wall aud the trees fring- 
ing its front, whilst the rebs, concealed in the thick foliage of 
the branches upon their line, annoyed irs considerably. On 
our extreirre left, fronting the Devil's Den, things were not so 
quiet. Captains Bell and Wolff were sent out to develop the 
enemy's strength, and when deployed as skirmishers, as they 
approached the edge of the '"Den," the fire became severe, in- 
dicating a heavy force, strong!}' posted. Taking cover, a rapid 
tire was opened in the hope of driving the enemy from his posi- 
tion, or forcing him to come orrt from his stronghold to drive 
thenr off". Armed with breech-loaders and Spencer repeating- 
rifles, any object that will cover the body is all the protection 
a man needs, as he is rrot exposed in loading, and this srrperior- 
ity irr the Bucktails' arms soon gave them a decided advantage. 
The enemy were not long irr discovering this, aud in. a superior 



116 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

lorce made a dash from the ''Den," and forced the boys to 
make a rapid retreat to, prevent the capture of the entire 
party. In this charge the loss was heavy, and Captain Bell 
received a wound in the hip which caused the loss of a leg. 
The enemy, strange to say, did not follow up their advantage. 
Thrust out, as we were, far in advance of our line of battle, 
with both flanks exposed, they should, during the night, have 
attempted to flank us out and drive us down the wall. 
Whether they would have succeeded or not is problematic, yet 
it seems strange they should have allowed our little brigade 
to occupy til at advanced position without attempting our dis- 
lodgement. Lieutenant Kratzer was then sent out with thirty 
volunteers. Starting on a run, they passed up close to the 
"Den," when a volley killed and wounded one-third of them. 
The enemy called upon them to surrender, but the men took 
cover and fired at every mark that presented itself, until the 
brigade moved. 

The battlefield is not ahvays devoid of amusing incidents. 
On the right, two men of the Sixth found a horse tied in the 
wood in front of them, which they brought in. A youngster 
named Dan Cole, to relieve the monotony of picket-firing, 
mounted the animal and rode down the front of the brigade 
line, playing "Buck McCandless." He appealed in the most 
pathetic tones to the boys to remember their "daddies" and 
"mammies" and "best gal," and never to desert the old flag as 
long as there was a ration left. He created much amusement 
until the horse bounced him off and scampered over to the 
rebels, when the cheers and shouts of both lines caused us to 
forget for the moment we were enemies. 

The tumult of a conflict on our extreme right was heard 
from early dawn until near noon, occasioned by the Union 
troops regaining their lost ground of the evening before. This 
was followed by a stillness over the whole field — the ominous 
calm that presages a deadly storm — -when at one o'clock the 
signal guns of the enemy fired, and then opened that grand 
cannonade in which two hundred and twenty-one guns* hurled 
their missiles through the air. The enemy's front for two 
miles was soon covered with smoke, through which the flashes 
were incessant, whilst the air seemed filled with bursting 



*One hundred and fifty Confederate and seventy-one Union guns. General H. J. 
Hunt in the Century Magazine, January, 1887, p. 452. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 117 

shells and their whirling fragments. The Union line blazed 
like a volcano, and the thunder of the guns seemed like one 
prolonged sound. Suddenl}- the fire on both sides ceased, and 
then Pickett's charge was made. From the position we oc- 
cupied, in advance of our line of battle, we had a full view as 
they swept by of this the most grand and thrilling sight the 
eye of man could rest on. That magnificent mass of living 
valor, so full of hope and resolution, so soon to be swept back, 
crushed, torn and bleeding, awakened in us mingled feelings 
of admiration and apprehension, for it seemed like an irre- 
sistible avalanche. Those gallant lines never faltered, but 
lost to view in the smoke of infantry, they melted away, and 
the glad earth drank their blood. Disorganized stragglers and 
fragments could only be seen coming back, and they followed 
by a relentless fire. 

During this time firing ceased in our front, all eyes awaiting 
the result that was to decide the fate of the battle. In spite 
of the watchfulness of the officers, men from every regiment 
slipped away and soon formed a line of sharp-shooters upon 
the flank of the charging column. OflScers were sent to drive 
them back, but the boys resorted to ingenious artifices to avoid 
or deceive them, some throwing themselves upon the ground 
and imitating the agonies of death. Several of them were 
wounded, and at least one killed, but they inflicted consider- 
able loss upon the enemy, whom they shot down as they 
marched so gallantly on or rushed back in flight. 

The defeat of Pickett was followed by a breathless lull, soon 
to be broken by a revengeful fire from the battery and sharp- 
shooters in our front. Major-General Meade, together with 
Generals Sykes, Warren, Sedgwick, Pleasonton and Crawford, 
soon gathered on the summit of Little Bound Top, and the gen- 
eral-in-chief, becoming impatient at this fire, ordered General 
Crawford to clean out the woods in his front. Crawford rode 
to the stone wall and gave the necessary orders. During the 
night a section of a battery had been posted near the cross- 
road in the interval between the Trestle's and Eose's woods 
on the west side of the wheatfield, four hundred and fifty 
yards in our immediate front. Through the daj^ our sharp- 
shooters had severely left it alone, as we did not wish to pro- 
voke an unequal contest, and it only occasionally fired at us. 
This battery it was necessary to silence; McCandless' brigade 
9 



118 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

leaped over the stone wall and deliberately dressed their lines. 
The battery opened upon them vigorously, when they lay 
down. Soon the gunners, becoming tired at firing at the air, 
ceased. Then the brigade rose to its feet and slowly moved 
to the left some twenty paces. Again the guns opened and we 
laid ourselves quietly down. This operation of see-sawing to 
the right and left was continued, successfully drawing the 
harmless fire of the guns, while the Sixth Reserve crept up 
through Trostle's woods to attempt its capture. But the 
enemy discovered the movement, and, hastily limbering up, 
fled, the Sixth opening fire to give them a good start. Their 
infantry support, after a brisk skirmish, was also driven in. 
Upon hearing and seeing the muskets of the Sixth, McCand- 
less marched the balance of his brigade by the right flank, and 
filing left, formed line of battle, and deploying skirmishers to 
the front, right and left, charged diagonally over the wheat- 
field to the southwest, receiving the enemy's fire from three 
sides. Striking near the south end of Rose's woods, they half- 
wheeled to the right, opened fire, and charged up and through 
it to the crest, striking and piercing their line, the enemy, after 
a sharp resistance, breaking mostly towards the peach 
orchard. The ground was strewed with the dead of DeTrobri- 
and's command. McCandless, learning the left flank of the 
Bucktails, which held the left of the line, was being attacked, 
changed the direction of that regiment by the left flank to the 
rear, which movement brought its front facing the enemy mov- 
ing upon them from this direction. At the same time, placing 
the balance of the brigade in columns of regiments in the rear, 
he charged with his entire force in this new direction. Down 
through the low land and up through the rising ground and 
woods went the brigade, they striking the Fifteenth Georgia 
Infantry, posted behind a temporary breastwork of rails, the 
Bucktails capturing their flag and many prisoners, scattering 
the remainder in flight. 

The Reserves never liked charging in column of regiments, 
and in this case, as in every similar one, the rear regiments, 
without orders, pushed to the front, which soon changed into 
that of brigade line of battle. The right being thus extended, 
the whole line swept upon their flank, doubling up and throw- 
ing one regiment upon another, creating utter confusion and 
demoralization. They fled across a ravine at the corner of a 



Pennsylvania at Qettyshurg. 119 

woods and near Slydei-'s stone house. Here we discovered a 
brigade drawn up across our front about three hundred yards 
distant. Our impetuous charge had expended itself, and the 
men as they came up were quickly got into line, and they were 
gathering fast, but before forty men were in line, to our sur- 
prise, we distincth' heard the orders pass down the line of 
''Left face, march !" The rear of their line, their front facing 
westward, had not moved twenty paces before they broke, by 
order, into a "double-quick," carrying their banners at a trail. 
Had this brigade resolutely charged, they would have driven 
the head of our long, scattered column back for some distance, 
until we could have got ourselves in shape to properly resist 
them, but such was our sudden appearance, and at such disad- 
vantage to them, that they naturally became demoralized and 
supposed we were in much heavier force than we really v.'ere. 
The Comte de Paris gives an account of the "piking out'' of 
this brigade, which he says was Kershaw's, that we cannot re- 
frain from adding it, gravely surmising, however, it was the 
ingenious invention of some brilliant Confederate writer who 
conceived the idea of turning their somewhat laudable exit 
into a dexterous military manceuver. "Kershaw finds himself 
isolated in his turn, and believing himself already surrounded, 
in order to escape from the enemy resorts to a manceuver 
which we mention on account of, as the count naively says, 
" 'its singularity.' He sends the color-bearers of his regi- 
ments to plant their flags a few hundred yards in the right- 
rear, across the tributary of Plum Eun, subsequently ordering 
his soldiers to break ranks and reform in this new position." 
So sudden was the charge thjat we killed and captured their 
butchers while engaged in skinning beeves, and also a fatigue 
party, who were burying their dead. We recaptured the 
greater part of the battlefield lost by Sickles, with its thou- 
sands of dead and wounded, captured the colors of the Fif- 
teenth Georgia, which are now in the Adjutant-General's office 
at Washington, and over two hundred prisoners, among them 
a lieutenant-colonel, of a Georgia regiment, and captured and 
recovered three thousand two hundred and fifty-eight mus- 
kets, one brass twelve-pounder, and three caissons. With this 
charge ended the battle of Gettysburg. The movements of 
both days were made under the personal direction and super- 
vision of General Crawford. 



120 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

The distance charged over the wheatfield was seven hun- 
dred and tifty yards, from that point towards Slyder's house 
six hundred and sixty-six yards — fourteen hundred and fifteen 
yards in all. Taking them, as we did in a measure, by surprise, 
and on the flank, their rout was no disgrace to them, nor was 
their military honor tarnished. Such occurences are not 
unknown in war. Those landless resolutes who had gallantly 
performed their part on many hard-fought fields, and who sub- 
sequently proved their devotion to the end, cannot be judged 
as wanting in spirit or courage. 

Soon after we halted. Captain Coates came with orders from 
General Crawford for us to preceed no farther, and at this 
point we were rejoined by the Sixth Reserve. After dark we 
retraced our steps to the southwestern edge of Rose's woods 
and bivouacked on the ground where we first encountered the 
enemy and pierced their line. Here we buried our dead, some 
seven or eight in number, our wounded having been removed 
on stretchers folloAving the charge. Some distance in our 
front was Rose's springhouse, in which lay dead a Confederate 
officer and two men. From this stream we refilled our can- 
teens, and our pickets, being concealed near it, captured a 
number of prisoners, who came there for the same purpose. 
All night long the ambulances and stretchers were collecting 
the wounded, who had lain there from the afternoon of the 2d. 
During the night a supply of ammunition was received, Colonel 
McCandless carrying it on his horse, one hundred and four 
thousand eight hundred and twenty rounds having been is- 
sued to the division during this battle, and at 2 o'clock the next 
morning, the 4th, we moved down the eastern side of the 
woods along the wheatfield to near its northern border, where 
we entered the woods, and, moving through it, lay down on its 
western edge fronting the peach orchard, with our right test- 
ing near the cross-road. Soon after daylight, the enemy's 
pickets called to us to come and get our wounded who lay be- 
tween the two lines. Volunteers went out for that purpose, 
but, being fire upon, returned. Several round-shots were 
fired from a distant battery, but they richochetted harmlessly 
over the field. The fire was returned by such of the boys who 
felt inclined to do so; a skirmish line was sent out to develop 
their position, but the whole affair was spiritless, and after 10. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 121 

o'clock we saw no more of them on that iield. These were the 
last shots fired at Gett3'sburg. 

There was an abandoned gun and caisson of a Union battery 
near Trostle's woods. During the morning of the 3d the Con- 
federates attached a long rope to the gun and tried to pull it 
over the hill near Trostle's barnyard, but one of the Sixth, 
who was out hunting "grub" from the rebel's haversacks, dis- 
covered thef manceuver and, creeping up, cut the rope, which 
created quite a surprise to those pulling on it. Late in the 
afternoon of that day, when the Sixth attempted the capture 
of the enemy's battery. Company "I" was sent to the extreme 
right to cover the house and barn, and when they returned 
they brought them into our lines. 

Company K, First Keserves, was from the town and neigh- 
borhood of Gettysburg, many of the men fighting within sight 
of their homes, and some even to drive the invaders from their 
own fields. The fathers and younger brothers of some of the 
boys accompanied them to Little Eound Top, and one went to 
the stone wall with us. 

When we advanced across tlie wheat-field, Brigadier-Gen- 
eral Bartlett, at the request of General Crawford, moved a 
regiment to the stone wall, and threw a force to our right to 
protect that flank. 

About noon, being relieved by a brigade of regulars, we 
moved back to the stone wall, passing an artillery horse seated 
on his haunches with his front-feet on the ground and head 
erect, just as he had been killed. Against the wall were rest 
ing thousands of muskets picked up off the field. Soon after 
other troops came to the wall, and we moved back to Little 
Round Top, where rations were distributed, and where we re- 
mained until the afternoon of the next day, tlie 5th; the rain, 
which commenced about noon of the day before, still continu- 
ing. Then we started on our fifth tramp up and down through 
Virginia. 



122 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



ITINERARY OF THE UNION FORCES IN THE 
GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN. 



JUNE 5. — The Army of the Potomac, commanded by Major- 
General Joseph Hooker, with headquarters near Fal- 
mouth, Avas posted on the north bank of the Rappahan- 
nock River, confronting the Confederate Army of Northern 
Virginia, under General Robert E. Lee, mainly concentrated 
about the town of Fredericksburg, on the south bank of the 
river. The several commands of the Army of the Potomac 
were distributed as follows: First Corps (Reynolds') in the vi- 
cinity of White Oak Church; Second Corps (Couch's) near Fal- 
mouth; Third Corps (Birney's) at Boscobel near Falmouth; 
Fifth Corps (Meade's) in the vicinity of Banks', United States, 
and adjacent fords on the Rappahannock; Sixth Corps (Sedg- 
wick's) near White Oak Church, with the Second Division 
(Howe's) thrown forward to Franklin's Crossing of the Rappa- 
hannock, a little below Fredericksburg, near the mouth of 
Deep Run; Eleventh Corps (Howard's) near Brooke's Station, 
on the Aquia Creek railroad; and the Twelfth Corps (Slocum's) 
near Stafford Court House and Aquia Lauding. The Cavalry 
Corps (Pleasonton's, with headquarters at Manassas Junction) 
had two divisions (Duffie's and Gregg's) and the Cavalry Re- 
serve Brigade, all under Buford, in the vicinity of Warrenton 
Junction, and one division (B.F. Davis') in the neighborhood 
of Brooke's Station. The Artillery Reserve (R. O. Tyler's) was 
near Falmouth. 

Jirne 6. — Howe's (Second) Division, Sixth Army Corps, 
crossed the Rappahannock at Franklin's Crossing, and, after a 
skirmish, occupied the enemy's rifle-pits. Wright's (First) and 
Newton's (Third) Divisions of the same corps moved to the 
same point from White Oak Church, taking position on the 
north bank of the river. 

June 7. — Wright's (First) Division, Sixth Corps, was sent 
across the Rappahannock at Franklin's Crossing, relieving 
Howe's (Second) Division, which returned to the north side. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 123 

June 8. — The Cavalry Corps (Pleasonton's), consisting of 
Buford's (First), D. McM. Gregg's (Third) and Duffle's (Sec- 
ond) Divisions, and the Kegular Eeserve Brigade, supported by 
detachments of infantry, under Generals Adelbert Ames and 
David A. Eussell, moved to Kelly's and Beverly Fords prepara- 
tory to crossing the Eappahannock on a reconnoissance to- 
ward Culpeper. 

Jime 9. — Newton's (Third) Division, Sixth Corps, relieved 
Wright's (First) Division on the south bank of the Rappahan- 
nock at Franklin's Crossing. The cavalry corps, supported by 
Generals Ames' and Russell's infantry, crossed the Rappahan- 
nock at Kelly's and Beverly Fords, fought the enemy at or 
near Beverly Ford, Brandy Station, and Steveusburg, and re- 
crossed the river at Rappahannock Station and Beverly Ford. 

June 10. — The Cavalry Corps took position in the neighbor- 
hood of Warrenton Junction. Its infantry supports in the re- 
connoissance of the day previous rejoined their respective 
commands. Howe's (Second) Division, Sixth Corps, moved 
from Franklin's Crossing to Aquia Creek. 

June 11. — The Third Corps marched from Boscobel, near 
Falmouth, to Hartwood Church. 

June i2.— -The First Corps marched from Fitzhugh's planta- 
tion and White Oak Church to Deep Run; the Third Corps 
from Hartwood Church to Bealeton, with Humphreys' (Third) 
Division, advanced to the Rappahannock; the Eleventh Corps 
from the vicinity of Brooke's Station to Hartwood Church; 
and Headquarters Cavalry Corps from Manassas Junction to 
Warrenton Junction. 

The advance of the Confederate Army skirmished with the 
Union troops at Newtown, Cedarville and Middletown, in the 
Shenandoah Valley. 

June 13. — The First Corps marched from Deep Run to Beale- 
ton; the Fifth Corps from the vicinity of Banks' Ford, via 
Grove Cliurch, toward Morrisville; Wright's (First) and New- 
ton's (Third) Divisions, Sixth Corps, from Franklin's Crossing 
to Potomac Creek; the Eleventh Corps, from Hartwood 
Church to Catlett's Station ; the Twelfth Corps from near Staf- 
ford Court House and Aquia Creek Landing en route to Dum- 
fries; Wyndham's Brigade of Gregg's Cavalry Division, from 
Warrenton Junction to Warrenton; and the Artillery Reserve 
from near Falmouth to Stafford Court House. McReynolds' 



124 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

(Third) Brigade, of Milroy's Division, Eighth Army Corps, 
marched from Berryville to Winchester. 

Combats: Skirmishes at White Post, Berrysville, Opequon 
Creek, and at Bunker Hill, and engagement (first day) at Win- 
chester, Va. 

June 14- — Headquarters Army of the Potomac moved from 
near Falmouth to Dumfries ; the First and Third Corps march- 
ed from Bealeton to Manassas Junction; the Fifth Corps ar- 
rived at Morrisville and marched thence, via Bristersburg, to 
Catlett's Station ; Wright's (First) and Newton's (Third) divi- 
sions. Sixth Corps, moved from Potomac Creek to Stafford 
Court House; the Eleventh Corps from Catlett's Station to 
Manassas Junction, and thence toward Centreville; the 
Twelfth Corps reached Dumfries; and the Artillery Reserve 
moved from Stafford Court House to Wolf Run Shoals. Daniel 
Tyler's command, of the Eighth Army Corps, fell back from 
Martinsburg to Maryland Heights. 

Combats: Skirmishes at Martinsburg and Berryville, and en- 
gagement (second day) at Winchester, Va. 

June 15. — Headquarters Army of the Potomac moved from 
Dumfries to Fairfax Station; the Second Corps (Hancock's*) 
moved from Falmouth to near Aquia; the Fifth Corps from 
Catlett's Station, via Bristoe Station, to Manassas Junction; 
the Sixth Corps from Aquia Creek and Stafford Court House 
to Dumfries; tlie Twelfth Corps from Dumfries to Fairfax 
Court House; the Cavalry Corpsf (except Wyndham's Brigade, 
which marched from Warrenton to Manassas Junction, and 
thence on the Ifith to Union Mills) from Warrenton Junction 
to Union Mills and Bristoe Station; the Artillery Reserve 
from Wolf Run Shoals to Fairfax Court House; and the Elev- 
enth Corps arrived at Centreville. Milroy's (Second) Division 
of the Eighth Army Corps, evacuated Winchester, and fell 
back to Maryland Heights and Hancock, Md. 

Combats: Skirmish near Williamsport, Md., and engagement 
(third day) at Winchester, Va. 

June 16. — The Second Corps marched from near Aquia, via 
Dumfries, to Wolf Run Shoals, on the Occoquan; the Sixth 

♦General Hancock assumed control of the Second Corps June 9, 1863, succeeding 
(ieneral Cor.eli, wlio was assigned to the command of the Department of the Sus- 
•luehanna. 

tBy orders of June 13, 1863, this corps were reduced from three to two divisions, 
couimauded by Bris. Gens. John Buford and D. McM. Gregg. 



Pennsylvania at Gcttyshunj. 125 

Corps from Dumfries to Fairfax Station; and the Cavalry 
Corps from Union Mills and Bristoe Station to Manassas Janc- 
tion and Bull Run. 

June 11. — The First Corps marched from Manassas Junction 
to Herndon Station; the Second Corps from Wolf Run Shoals 
to Sangster's Station; the Third Corps from Manassas Junc- 
tion to Centreville; the Fifth Corps from Manassas Junction 
to Gum Springs ; the Eleventh Corps from Centreville to Cow- 
Horn Ford, or Trappe Rock, on Goose Creek ; and the Twelfth 
Corps from Fairfax Court House to near Dranesville. The 
Cavalry Corps moved from Manassas Junction and Bull Run 
to Aldie. 

Gomhats: Action at Aldie, Va., and skirmishes at Catoctin 
Creek and Point of Rocks, Md., and at Thoroughfare Gap and 
Middleburg, Va. 

June 18. — Headquarters Army of the Potomac moved from 
Fairfax Station to Fairfax Court House ; the Sixth Corps from 
Fairfax Station to Germantowu ; and the Twelfth Corps from 
near Dranesville to Leesburg. J. I. Gregg's Cavalry Brigade 
advanced from Aldie to Middleburg, and returned to a point 
midway between the two places. 

Combats: Skirmishes at Middleburg and Aldie, Va. 

June 19. — The First Corps marched from Herndon Station to 
Guilford Station; the Third Corps from Centreville to Gum 
Springs; and the Fifth Corps from Grrm Springs to Aldie. 
Gregg's Cavalry Division, except Mcintosh's (late Wyndham's) 
Brigade, advanced to Middleburg. Mcintosh's Brigade moved 
from Aldie to Hay Market. 

Gomhats: Action at Middleburg, Va. 

June 20. — -The Second Corps moved from Sangster's Station 
to Centreville, and thence toward Thorouglifare Gap; the Sec- 
ond Division (Howe's), Sixth Corps, from Germantown to 
Bristoe Station. 

Gomhats: Skirmish at Middletown, Md. 

June 21. — The Second Corps arrived at Gainesville and Thor- 
oughfare Gap. The Cavalry Corps (except Mcintosh's Brig- 
ade, of Gregg's Divisiorr), supported by Barnes' (First) Divi- 
sion, Fifth Corps, marched from Aldie and Middleburg to Up- 
perville. Mcintosh's Cavalry Brigade marched from Hay 
Market to Aldie, and thence to Upperville. Stahel's Division 
of Cavalry from the Defences of Washington, moved from 



126 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

Fairfax Court House, via Centreville aud Gainesville, to Buck- 
land Mills. 

Comhats: Skirmisher at Gainesville, Thoroughfare Gap, and 
Hay Market, Va., Frederick, Md., and engagement at Upper- 
ville, Va. 

June 22.- — The Cavalry Corps and Barnes' (First) Division of 
the Fifth Corps, returned from Upperville to Aldie. Stahel's 
Cavalry Division moved from Buckland Mills, via New Balti- 
more, to Warrenton. 

Conihats: Skirmishes near Dover and Aldie, Va., aud at 
Greencastle, Pa. 

June 23. — Stahel's Cavalry Division moved from Warrenton, 
via Gainesville, to Fairfax Court House. 

Jime 2-^.— Newton's (Third) Division, Sixth Corps, moved 
from Germantown to Centreville, and the Eleventh Corps from 
Cow-Horn Ford, or Trappe Bock, on Goose Creek, to the south 
bank of the Potomac at Edwards' Ferry, Stahel's Cavalry Di- 
vision moved from Fairfax Court House to near Dranesville. 

Comhats: Skirmish at Sharpsburg, Md. 

June 25. — The First Corps marched from Guilford Station, 
Va., to Barnesville, Md. ; the Third Corps from Gum Springs, 
Va., to the north side of the Potomac at Edwards' Ferry and 
the mouth of the Monocacy; the Eleventh Corps from Ed' 
wards' Ferr}^, Va., to Jefferson, Md. ; and the Artillery Reserve 
from Fairfax Court House, Va., to near Poolesville, Md. These 
commands crossed the Potomac at Edwards' Ferry. The Sec- 
ond Corps marched from Thoroughfare Gap and Gainesville to 
Gum Springs. Howe's (Second) Division, Sixth Corps, moved 
from Bristoe Station to Centreville; Crawford's Division (two 
brigades) of Pennsylvania Reserves, from the Defenses of 
Washington, marched from Fairfax Station and Upton's Hill 
to Vienna. Stannard's Vermont Brigade, from the Defenses 
of Washington, left the mouth of the Occoquau en route to join 
the Army of the Potomac. Stahel's Cavalry Division moved 
from near Dranesville, Va., via Young's Island Ford, on the 
Potomac, en route to Frederick, Md. 

Comhats: Skirmishes at Thoroughfare Gap and Hay Market, 
Va., and near McConnellsburg, Pa. 

June 26. — Headquarters Army of the Potomac moved from 
Fairfax Court House, Va., via Dranesville and Edwards' Ferry, 
to Poolesville, Md. ; the First Corps from Barnesville to Jeffer- 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 127 

sou, Md.; the Second Corps from Gum Springs, Va., to the 
north side of the Potomac at Edwards' Ferry; the Third Corps 
from the mouth of the Monocacy to Point of Rocks, Md. ; the 
Fifth Corps from Aldie, Va., via Carter's Mills, Leesburg and 
Edwards' Ferry, to within four miles of the mouth of the Mon- 
ocacy, Md. ; the Sixth Corps from Germantown and Centreville 
to Dranesville, Va. ; the Eleventh Corps from Jefferson to Mid- 
dletown, Md. ; the Twelfth Corps from Leesburg, Va., via Ed- 
wards' Ferry, to the mouth of the Monocacy, Md. ; and the Cav- 
alry Corps (Buford's and Gregg's Divisions) from Aldie to 
Leesburg, Va. Stahel's Cavalry Division was en route between 
the Potomac and Frederick, Md. Crawford's Pennsylvania 
Reserves moved from Vienna to Goose Creek, Va. 

Combats: Skirmish near Gettysburg, Pa. 

June 21. — Headquarters Army of the Potomac moved from 
Poolesville to Frederick, Md. ; the First Corps from Jeiferson 
to Middletown, Md.; the Second Corps from near Edwards' 
Ferry, via Poolesville to Barnesville, Md. ; the Third Corps 
from Point of Rocks via Jefferson, to Middletown, Md. ; the 
Fifth Corps from a point between Edwards' Ferry and the 
mouth of the Monocacy to Ballinger's Creek, near Frederick, 
Md. ; the Sixth Corps from Dranesville, Va., via Edwards' 
Ferry, to near Poolesville, Md. ; the Twelfth Corps from near 
the mouth of the Monocacy, via Point of Rocks, to Knoxville, 
Md.; Buford's Cavalry Division from Leesburg, Va., via Ed- 
wards' Ferry, to near Jefferson, Md. ; Gregg's Cavalry Division 
from Leesburg, Va., via Edwards' Ferry, toward Frederick, 
Md. ; and the Artillery Reserve from Poolesville to Frederick, 
Md. Stahel's Cavalry Division reached Frederick, Md. Craw- 
ford's Pennsylvania Reserves moved from Goose Creek, Va., 
via Edwards' Ferry, to the mouth of the Monocacy, Md. 

Combats^ Skirmish near Fairfax Court House, Va. 

Jime 28.— The First Corps marched from Middletown to 
Frederick; the Second Corps from Barnesville to Monocacy 
Junction; the Third Corps* from Middletown to near Woods- 
borough; the Sixth Corps from near Poolesville to Hyatts- 
town ; the Eleventh Corps from Middletown to near Frederick, 
and the Twelfth Corps from Knoxville to Frederick. Bu- 
ford's Cavalry Division moved from near Jefferson to Middle- 

*Major-General B. E. Sickles resumed command of the Third Corps, relieving 
Major-General D. B. Birney, who had been temporarily in command. 



128 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

town; Gregg's Cavah'y Division reached Frederick and march- 
ed thence to New Market and Eidgeville. Crawford's Penn- 
sylvania Reserves marched from the mouth of the Monocacy 
and joined the Fifth Corps* . at Ballinger's Creek. Stahel's 
Cavalry Division was assigned to the Cavalry Corps, as the 
Third Division, under Brigadier-General Judson Kilpatrick, 
with Brigadier-General Elon J. Farnsworth commanding the 
First Brigade and Brigadier-General George A, Custer com- 
manding the Second Brigade. 

Goinhats: Skirmishes between Offutt's Cross-Roads and Sen- 
eca, and near Rockville, Md., and at Fountain Dale, Wrights- 
ville, and near Oyster Point, Pa. 

June 29. — Headquarters Army of the Potomac moved fi'om 
Frederick to Middleburg ; the First and Eleventh Corps from 
Frederick to Emmitsburg; the Second Corps from Monocacy 
Junction, via Liberty and Johnsville, to Uniontown ; the Third 
Corps from near Woodsborough to Taneytown; the Fifth 
Corps from Ballinger's Creek, via Frederick and Mount Pleas- 
ant, to Liberty; the Sixth Corps from Hyattstown, via New 
Market and Eidgeville, to New Windsor; the Twelfth Corps 
from Frederick to Taneytown and Bruceville; Gamble's (Fiist) 
and Devin's (Second) Brigades, of Buford's (First) Cavalry 
Division, from Middletown, via Boonsborough, Cavetown and 
Monterey Springs, to near Fairfield; Merritt's Reserve Cav- 
alry Brigade, of the same division, from Middletown to Me- 
chanicstown; Gregg's (Second) Cavalry Division from New 
Market and Ridgeville to New Windsor; Kilpatrick's (Third) 
Cavalry Division from Frederick to Littlestown, and the Artil- 
lery Reserve from Frederick to Bruceville. 

Combats: Skirmishes at Muddy Branch and Westminister, 
Md., and at McConnellsburg and near Oyster Point, Pa. 

June 30. — Headquarters Army of the Potomac moved from 
Middleburg to Taneytown; the First Corps from Emmitsburg 
to Marsh Run ; the Third Corps from Taneytown to Bridge- 
port; the Fifth Corps from Liberty, via Johnsville, L^nion 
Bridge and Union, to Union Mills; the Sixth Corps from New 
Windsor to Manchester; the Twelfth Corps from Taneytown 
and Bruceville to Littlestown ; Gamble's and Devin's Brigades, 

*Major-Geneial George G. Meade relinquished command of the Fifth Corps to 
Major-General George Sykes, and assumed command of the Army of the Potomac, 
relieving Major-General Joseph Hooker. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 129 

of Buford's Cavalry Division, from near Fairfield, via Eramits- 
burg, to Gettysburg; Gregg's Cavalry Division from New 
Windsor to Westminster, and thence to Manchester; Kilpat- 
rick's Cavalry Division from Littlestown to Hanover, and the 
Artillery Eeserve from Bruceville to Taneytown; Kenly's and 
Morris' Brigades, of French's Division, left Maryland Heights 
for Frederick, and Elliott's and Smith's Brigades, of the same 
division, moved from the Heights, by way of the Chesapeake 
and Ohio Canal, for Washington. 

Gomhats: Action at Hanover, Pa., and skirmishes at West- 
minister, Md., and at Fairfield and Sporting Hill, near Havris- 
biirg. Pa. 

July 1. — The First Corps moved from Marsh Eun and the 
Eleventh Corps from Emmittsburg to Gettysburg; the Second 
Corps from Uniontown, via Taneytown, to near Gettysburg; 
the Third Corps from Bridgeport, via Emmittsburg, to the field 
of Gettj'-sburg ; the Fifth Corps from Union Mills, via Hanover 
and McSherrytown, to Bonaughtown; the Sixth Corps fiom 
Mancliester en route to Gettysburg, and the Twlefth Corps 
from Littlestown, via Two Taverns, to the field of Gettysburg. 
Gregg's Cavalry Division marched from Manchester to Han- 
over Junction, whence Mcintosh's and J. I. Gregg's Brigades 
proceeded to Hanover, while Huey's Brigade returned to Man- 
chester. Kilpatrick's Cavalry Division moved from Hanover, 
via Abbottsville, to Berlin, and the Artillery Eeserve (Ean- 
som's and Fitzhugh's Brigades) from Taneytown to near Get- 
tysburg. Stannard's Vermont Brigade from the Defenses of 
Washington, joined the First Corps on the field of Gettysburg. 
W. F. Smith's (First) Division of the Department of the Sus- 
quehanna, marched from the vicinity of Harrisburg to Carlisle. 
Kenly's and Morris' Brigades of French's Division reached 
Frederick. 

Gomhats: Battle of Gettysburg (first day), and skirmish at 
Carlisle, Pa. 

July 2. — The Second, Fifth and Sixth Corps, Lockwood's Bri- 
gade, from the Middle Department, Mcintosh's and J, I. 
Gregg's Brigades, of D. McM. Gregg's Cavalry Division, Kil- 
patrick's Cavalry Division and the Artillery Eeserve reached 
the field of Gettysburg. Gamble's and Devin's Brigades, of 
Buford's Cavalry Division, marched from Gettysburg to Tan- 



130 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

eytown, and Merritt's Reserve Brigade from Mechanicstown 
to Emmitsburg. 

Combats: Battle of Gettysburg (second day), and skirmishes 
at Hunterstown and near Chambersburg, Pa. 

July 3. — Gamble's and Devin's Brigades, of Buford's Cavalry 
Division, moved from Tanneytown to Westminster; Merritt's 
Reserve Brigade from Emmitsburg to the field of Gettysburg, 
and Huey's Brigade, of Gregg's Cavalry Division, from Man- 
chester to Westminster. 

Combats: Battle of Gettysburg (third day), and action at 
Fairfield, Pa. 

July 4- — Gamble's and Devin's Brigades, of Buford's Cavalry 
Division, marched from Westminister, and Merritt's Reserve 
Brigade from Gettysburg, en route to Frederick; Huey's Bri- 
gade, of Gregg's Cavalry Division, from Westminster, via 
Emmitsburg, to Monterey ; J. I. Gregg's Cavalry Brigade from 
Gettysburg to Hunterstown, and Kilpatrick's Cavalry Division 
from Gettysburg, via Emmitsburg, to Monterey. Smith's Di- 
vision, of Couch's command, moved from Carlisle, via Mount 
Holly, to Pine Grove, and the remainder of Couch's troops 
from the vicinity of Harrisburg toward Shippensburg and 
Chambersburg. Elliott's and Smith's Brigades, of French's 
Division, arrived at Washington from Maryland Heights, and 
moved to Tennallytown. Morris' Brigade, of French's Divi- 
sion, marched from Frederick to Turner's Gap, in South Moun- 
tain. 

Combats: Action at Monterey Gap, Pa., and skirmishes at 
Fairfield Gap, Pa., near Emmitsburg, Md. 

July 5. — Leaving Gettysburg, the Second Corps marched to 
Two Taverns; the Fifth Corps to Marsh Run; the Sixth Corps 
to Fairfield; the Eleventh Corps to Rock Creek; the Twelfth 
Corps to Littlestown ; Mcintosh's Brigade, of Gregg's Cavalry 
Division to Emmitsburg, and the Artillery Reserve to Littles- 
town. Buford's Cavalry Division reached Frederick. J. I. 
Gregg's Cavalry Brigade moved from Hunterstown to Green- 
wood. Kilpatrick's Cavalry Division and Huey's Brigade, of 
Gregg's Cavalry Division, marched from Monterey, via Smiths- 
burg, to Boonsborough. 

Combats: Skirmishes at or near Smithsburg, Md., and Green 
Oak, Mercersburg, Fairfield, Greencastle, Cunningham's Cross 
Roads, and Stevens' Furnace (or Caledonia Iron Works), Pa. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 131 

July 6. — The First Corps marched from Gettysburg to Em- 
mitsburg; tlie Fifth Corps, from Marsh Run to Moritz's Cross 
Roads; the Sixth Corps from Fairfield to P^mmitsburg. except 
Mell's (Third) Brigade, of Howe's (Second) Division, which, 
in conjunction with Mcintosh's Brigade of Cavalry, was left at 
Fairfield to pursue the enemy; the Eleventh Corps from Rock 
Creek to Emmitsburg; Buford's Cavalry Division from Fred- 
erick to Williamsport and thence back to Jones' Cross Roads; 
Kilpatrick's Cavalry Division and Huey's Brigade, of Gregg's 
Cavalry Division, from Boonsborough, via Hagerstown* and 
Williamsport, to Jones' Cross Roads; Mcintosh's Brigade, of 
Gregg's Cavalry Division, from Emmitsburg to Fairfield; and 
J. I. Gregg's Brigade, of Gregg's Cavalry Division, from Green- 
wood to Marion ; Smith's Division, of Couch's command, moved 
from Pine Grove to Newman's Pass; Kenly's Brigade, of 
French's Division, marched from Frederick en route to Mary- 
land Heights; Elliott's and Smith's Brigades, of French's Divi- 
sion, left Tennallytown, via Washington and the Baltimore 
and Ohio railroad, en route to Frederick. 

Combats: Actions at Hagerstown and Williamsport, Md. 

July 7. — Headquarters Army of the Potomac moved from 
Gettysburg to Frederick ; the First Corps from Emmitsburg to 
Hamburg; the Second Corps from Two Taverns to Taneytown ; 
the Third Corps from Gettysburg, Via Emmitsburg, to Me- 
chanicstown; the Fifth Corps from Moritz's Cross Roads, via 
Emmitsburg, to Utica; the Sixth Corps from Emmitsburg to 
Mountain Pass, near Hamburg; the Eleventh Corps from Em- 
mitsburg to Middletown; the Twelfth Corps from Littlestown 
to Walkersville ; and the Artillery Reserve from Littlestown 
to Woodsborough ; Buford's and Kilpatrick's Cavalry Divi- 
sions and Huey's Brigade, of Gregg's Cavalry Division, moved 
from Jones' Cross Roads to Boonsborough; J. I. Gregg's Cav- 
alry Brigade was moving en route from Chambersburg to Mid- 
dletown ; Mcintosh's Brigade of Cavalry and Niell's Brigade of 
the Sixth Corps, moved from Fairfield to Waynesborough ; 
Smith's Division, of Couch's command, marched from New- 
man's Pass to Altodale; Kenly's Brigade, of French's Division, 
with other troops forwarded by Schenck from Baltimore, re- 

*RicLimonfrs Brigade of Kilpatrick's Division, remained at Hagerstown, wlience It 
retired toward Boonsborough. 



132 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

occupied Maryland Heights; Elliott's and Smith's Brigades, of 
French's Division, reached Frederick from Washington. 

Combats: Skirmishes at Dowusville and Funkstown, Md., 
and at Harper's Ferry, W. Va. 

July 8. — Headquarters Army of the Potomac moved fi'om 
Frederick to Middletown; the First Corps from Hamburg to 
Turner's Gap, in South Mountain ; the Second Corps from Tan- 
eytown to Frederick; the Third Corps from Mechanicstown to 
a point three miles southwest of Frederick; the Fifth Corps 
from Utica to Middletown; the Sixth Corps from near Ham- 
burg to Middletown ; the Eleventh Corps from Middletown to 
Turner's Gap, in South Mountain, Schurz's (Third) Division 
being advanced to Boonsborough ; the Twelfth Corps from Wal- 
kersville to Jefferson; and the Artillery Reserve from Woods- 
borough to Frederick; J. 1. Gregg's Cavalry Brigade was mov- 
ing en route from Chambersburg to Middletown; Smith's Divi- 
sion, of Couch's command, moved from Altodale to Waynes- 
borough; Campbell's and Mulligan's Brigades, of Kelly's com- 
mand. Department of West Virginia, were concentrated at 
Hancock, whence they moved to Fairview, on North Mountain. 

Combats : Action at Boonsborough and skirmish near Wil- 
liamsport, Md. 

July 9. — Headquarters Army of the Potomac moved from 
Middletown to Turner's Gap ; the Second Corps from Freder- 
ick to Rohrersville; the Third Corps from near Frederick to 
Fox's Gap, in South Mountain; the Fifth Corps from Middle- 
town, via Fox's Gap, to near Boonsborough; the Sixth Corps 
from Middletown to Boonsborough; the Twelfth Corps from 
Jefferson to Rohrersville; and the Artillery Reserve from 
Frederick to Boonsborough; J. I. Gregg's Cavalry Brigade 
reached Middletown from Chambersburg; Elliott's and Smith's 
Brigades, of French's Division, marched from Frederick to 
Middletown. 

Combats: Skirmish at Benevola (or Beaver Creek), Md. 

July 10. — Headquarters Army of the Potomac moved from 
Turner's Gap to Beaver Creek, beyond Boonsborough; the 
First Corps from Turner's Gap to Beaver Creek, where it Avas 
joined by Kenly's Brigade, of French's Division, from Mary- 
land Heights; the Second Corps from Rohrersville to near 
Tilghmanton ; the Third Corps from Fox's Gap, through Boons- 
borough, to Antietam Creek, in the vicinity of Jones' Cross 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 133 

Roads, where it was joined by Elliott's and Smith's Brigades, 
of French's Division, which marched from Middletown, and 
Morris' Brigade, of the same division, which marched from 
Turner's Gap; the Fifth Corps from near Boonsborough to 
Delaware Mills, on Antietam Creek; the Sixth Corps from 
Boonsborough to Beaver Creek; the Eleventh Corps from Tur- 
ner's Gap to Beaver Creek and the Twelfth Corps from Rohr- 
ersville to Bakersville; Buford's and Kilpatrick's Cavalry Di- 
visions moved from Boonsborough to Funkstown; Huey's Bri- 
gade, of Gregg's Cavalry Division, from Boonsborough to 
Jones' Cross Roads, and Mcintosh's Cavalry Brigade from 
Waynesborough via Smithsburg and Leitersburg, to Old An- 
tietam Forge, and back to Waynesborough. 

Combats: Skirmishes at or near Old Antietam Forge (near 
Leitersburg), Clear Spring, Hagerstown, Jones' Cross Roads 
(near Williamsport), and Funkstown, Md. 

July Jl. — The Second Corps moved from near Tilghmanton 
to the neighborhood of Jones' Cross Roads ; the Twelfth Corps 
from Bakersville to Fair Play and Jones' Cross Roads; Gam- 
ble's and Devin's Brigades of Buford's Cavalry Division from 
Funkstown to Bakersville; J. I. Gregg's Cavalry Brigade from 
Middletown to Boonsborough; Kilpatrick's Cavalry Division 
from Funkstown to near Hagerstown; the Artillery Reserve 
from Boonsborough to Benevola ; Neill's Brigade of the Sixth 
Corps, and Smith's Division, of Couch's command, from 
Waynesborough to Leitersburg. 

Combats: Skirmishes at or near Hagerstown, Jones' Cross 
Roads (near Williamsport) and Funkstown, Md. 

July 12. — The First, Sixth and Eleventh Corps moved from 
Beaver Creek to Funkstown ; Mcintosh's Cavalry Brigade from 
Waynesborough, via Leitersburg, to Boousb@rough; Kilpat- 
rick's Cavalry Division and Ames' (First) Division, Eleventh 
Corps, occupied Hagerstown; Neill's Brigade, of the Sixth 
Corps, moved from Leitersburg to Funkstown, where it re- 
joined its corps; Smith's Division (except one brigade, left at 
Waynesborough) from Leitersburg to Cavetown; Dana's (Sec- 
ond) Division, of Couch's command, from Chambersburg to 
Greencastle; and Averell's Cavalry Brigade, Department of 
West Virginia, from Cumberland en route to Fairview. 



10 



134 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

Combats: Skirmishes at or near Hagerstown, Jones' Cross 
Koads (near Williamsport) and Funkstown, Md., and Asliby's 
Gap, Va. 

July 13. — The Sixth Corps moved from Funkstown to the 
vicinity of Hagerstown; the Artillery Keserve from Benevola 
to Jones' Cross Roads, two brigades remaining at the latter 
place and the others returning to Benevola; Smith's Division, 
of Couch's command, from Waynesborough and Cavetown to 
Hagerstown and Beaver Creek. Averell's Cavalry Brigade 
joined Kelley's infantry at Fairview. 

Combats: Skirmishes at Hagerstown, Jones' Cross Roads 
and Funkstown, Md. 

July IJf. — The First Corps marched from Funkstown to Wil- 
liamsport; the Second Corps from near Jones' Cross Roads to 
near Falling Waters; the Third Corps from Antietam Creek, 
near Jones' Cross Roads, across Marsh Creek; the Fifth Corps 
from the vicinity of Roxbury Mills, on Antietam Creek, to near 
Williamsport ; the Sixth Corps from the neighborhood of Hag- 
erstown to Williamsport; the Eleventh Corps from Funks- 
town, via Hagerstown, to Williamsport; and Williams' (First) 
Division of the Twelfth Corps from Jones' Cross Roads to near 
Falling Waters, and thence to near Williamsport. Buford's 
Cavalry Division moved from Bakersville to Falling Waters; 
Mcintosh's and J. T. Gregg's Brigades of D. McM. Gregg's Cav- 
alry Division from Boonsborough to Harper's Ferry; Huey's 
Brigade of same division, from Jones' Cross Roads, via Wil- 
liamsport to Falling Waters; and Kilpatrick's Cavalry Divi- 
sion from Hagerstown, via Williamsport, to Falling Waters. 
Kelley's command. Department of West Virginia, marched 
from Fairview to Williamsport. 

Combats: Action at Falling Waters, Md., and skirmishes 
near Williamsport, Md., and Harper's Ferry, W. Va. 

July 15. — Headquarters Army of the Potomac moved from 
Beaver Creek to Berlin; the First Corps from Williamsport to 
Rohrersville ; the Second Corps from near Falling Waters to 
near Sandy Hook; the Third Corps from Marsh Creek to near 
Burnside's Bridge, on the Antietam; the Fifth Corps fi-om 
near Williamsport to Burkittsville ; the Sixth Corps from Wil- 
liamsport to Boonsborough; the Eleventh CorjDs from Wil- 
liamsport, via Hagerstown, to Middletown; and the Twelfth 
Corps from Fair Play and near Williamsport to Sandy Hook. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 135 

Two Brigades of the Artillery Eeserve moved from Joues' 
Cross Roads, and joining tlie remainder of the reserve at Bene- 
vola, the whole command marched thence, via Middletown, to 
Berlin. Buford's Cavalry Division moved from Falling Waters 
to Berlin; Mcintosh's and J. I. Gregg's Brigades, of D. McM. 
Gregg's Cavalry Division, from Harper's Ferry, via Halltown, 
to Shepherdstown ; Huey's Brigade of same division from Fall- 
ing Waters to Boonsborough; and Kilpatrick's Cavahy Divi- 
sion from Falling Waters, via Williamsport and Hagerstown, 
to Boonsborough, Kelley's command, Department of West 
Virginia, marched from Williamsport to Indian Springs. 

Combats: Skirmishes at Halltown and Shepherdstown, 
W. Va. 

July 16. — The First Corps marched from Rohrersville to 
near Berlin ; the Third Corps from Burnside's Bridge to Pleas- 
ant Valley, near Sandy Hook; the Fifth Corps from Burkitts- 
ville, via Petersville, to near Berlin; the Sixth Corps from 
Boonsborough to near Berlin; the Eleventh Corps from Mid- 
dletown, via Jefferson, to Berlin ; and the Twelfth Corps from 
Sandy Hook to Pleasant Valley. Buford's Cavalry Division 
moved from Berlin to Petersville; Huey's Brigade of Gregg's 
Cavalry Division, from Boonsborough, via Harper's Ferry, to 
Shepherdstown; and Kilpatrick's Division from Boonsbor- 
ough to Berlin, whence De Forest's (First) Brigade proceeded 
to Harper's Ferry. 

Combats: Action at Shepherdstown and skirmish at Shang- 
hai, W. Va. 

July 17. — The Third Corps moved from near Sandy Hook, 
crossed the Potomac at Harper's Ferry and proceeded to a 
point three miles south of the Ferry; the Fifth Corps moved 
from near Berlin to Lovettsville, crossing the Potomac at Ber- 
lin. Gregg's Cavalry Division marched from Shepherdstown 
to Harper's Ferry, Kilpatrick's Cavalry Division from Berlin 
and Harper's Ferry to Purcellville ; Custer's Brigade crossing 
the Potomac at Berlin and De Forest's Brigade the Shenan- 
doah at Harper's Ferry. Kelley's command, Department of 
West Virginia, moved from Indian Springs, Md., to Hedges- 
ville, W. Va., crossing the Potomac at Cherry Run. 

Combats: Skirmishes near North Mountain Station, W. Va., 
and near Snicker's Gap, Va. 

July 18. — Headquarters Army of the Potomac moved from 



136 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

Berlin, Md., to Lovettsville, Va. ; the First Corps from near Ber- 
lin to Waterford, crossing the Potomac at Berlin; the Second 
Corps from near Sandy Hook to Hillsborough, crossing the Po- 
tomac and Shenandoah Kivers at Harper's Ferry; the Third 
Corps from near Harper's Ferry to Hillsborough; the Fifth 
Corps from Lovettsville to near Purcellville ; the Artillery Ee- 
serve from Berlin to Wheatland; and Buford's Cavalry Divi- 
sion from Petersville to Purcellville, crossing the Potomac at 
Berlin. 

Combats: Skirmishes at and near Hedgesville and Martins- 
burg, W. Va. 

July 19. — Headquarters Army of the Potomac moved from 
Lovettsville to Wheatland; the First Corps from Waterford 
to Hamilton; the Second and Third Corps from Hillsborough 
to Wood Grove; the Fifth Corps from near Purcellville to a 
point on the road to Philomont; the Sixth Corps from near 
Berlin to Wheatland, and the Eleventh Corps from Berlin to 
near Hamilton, both corps crossing the Potomac at Berlin ; the 
Artillery Keserve from Wheatland to Purcellville; and the 
Twelfth Corps from Pleasant Valley to near Hillsborough, 
crossing the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers at Harper's 
Ferry. Buford's Cavalry Division moved from Purcellville, 
via Philomont, to near Eector's Cross Roads. Mcintosh's Bri- 
gade, of Gregg's Cavalry^ Division, moved from Harper's Ferry 
toward Hillsborough and Huey's and J. I. Gregg's Brigades of 
the same division, from Harper's Ferry to Lovettsville. Kil- 
patrick's Division of Cavalry marched from Purcellville to Up- 
perville. Kelley's command. Department of West Virginia, 
fell back from Hedgesville to the Maryland side of the Poto- 
mac at Cherry Run. 

Combats: Skirmishes at and near Hedgesville and Martins- 
burg, W. Va. 

July 20. — Headquarters Army of the Potomac moved from 
Wheatland to Union; the First Corps from Hamilton to Mid- 
dleburg; the Second and Third Corps from Wood Grove, the 
former going to Bloomfield and the later to Upperville; the 
Fifth Corps from a point on the Purcellville and Philomont 
road, via Union, to Panther Skin Creek ; the Sixth Corps from 
Wheatland to near Beaver Dam ; the Eleventh Corps from near 
Hamilton, via Mt. Gilead, to Mountville; the Twelfth Corps 
from near Hillsborough, via Wood Grove, to Snickersville; and 



Pennsi/lvania at Gettyshurg. 137 

the Artillery Keserve from Purcellville to Union; Buford's 
Cavalry Division moved from near Hector's Cross Koads to 
Eectortown, Gamble's Brigade going thence to Chester Gap, 
Devin's Brigade to Salem and Merritt's Brigade to Manassas 
Gap ; Mcintosh's Brigade, of Gregg's Cavalry Division, reached 
Hillsborough and marched thence toward Purcellville; Huey's 
and J. I. Gregg's Brigades, of same division, moved from Lov- 
ettsville to Goose Creek. 

Combats: Skirmishes near Berry's Ferry and at Ashby's 
Gap, Va. 

July 21. — Huey's and J. I. Gregg's Brigades, of D. McM. 
Gregg's Cavalry Division, moved from Goose Creek to Bull 
Run; Mcintosh's Brigades returned to Hillsborough; Kelley's 
command. Department of West Virginia, recrossed the Poto- 
mac from Maryland into Virginia at Cherry Run. 

Gomhats: Skirmishes at Manassas and Chester Gaps, Va. 

July 22. — Headquarters, Army of the Potomac moved from 
Union to Upperville; the First Corps from Middleburg to 
White Plains ; the Second Corps from Bloomfield to Paris : the 
Third Corps from Upperville, via Piedmont, to Linden; the 
Fifth Corps from Panther Skin Creek to Rectortown; and the 
Sixth Corps from near Beaver Dam to Rectortown; Devin's 
Brigade, of Buford's Cavalry Division, moved from Salem to 
Barbee's Cross Roads; Huey's and J. I. Gregg's Brigades, of 
D. McM. Gregg's Cavalry Division, from Bull Run to Broad 
Run; and Kilpatrick's Cavalry Division from Upperville to 
Piedmont. 

Gomhats: Skirmishes at Manassas and Chester Gaps, Va. 

July 23. — Headquarters Army of the Potomac moved from 
Upperville to Linden; the First Corps from White Plains to 
Warren ton ; the Second Corps from Paris to Linden ; the Third 
Corps from Linden to Manassas Gap; the Fifth Corps from 
Rectortown, via Markham Station, Farrowsville and Linden 
to Manassas Gap; the Sixth Corps from RectortoAvn to White 
Plains and Barbee's Cross Roads; the Eleventh Corps from 
Mountville to New Baltimore; the Twelfth Corps from Snick- 
ersville to Ashby's Gap and thence to Markham Station; and 
the Artillery Reserve from Union to near Rock Creek; Bu- 
ford's Cavalry Division concentrated at Barbee's Cross Roads ; 
Mcintosh's Brigade, of Gregg's Cavalry Division, moved from 



138 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

Hillsborough to Suickersville ; and Kilpatrick's Cavalry Divi- 
sion from Piedmont to Amissville. 

Combats: Action at Wapping Heights, Manassas Gap, and 
skirmishes near Gaines' Cross Koads, Snicker's Gap and Ches- 
ter Gap, Va. 

July 2.^.— Headquarters Army of the Potomac moved from 
Linden to Salem; the Second Corps from Linden to' Markham 
Station; the First Division (Wright's), Sixth Corps, from 
White Plains to New Baltimore; the Second Division (Howe's), 
Sixth Corps, from Barbee's Cross Koads to Markham Station 
and thence to Orleans; the Third Division (Bartlett's), Sixth 
Corps, from Barbee's Cross Roads to Thumb Run; and the 
Twelfth Corps from Markham Station to Linden, counter- 
Diarching, via Markham Station, to Piedmont; Huey's and J. I. 
Gregg's Brigades, of D. McM. Gregg's Cavalry Division, moved 
from Broad Run to Warren ton Junction; Kelley's command, 
Department of West Virginia, advanced from Cherry Run to 
Hedgesville. 

Combats: Skirmish at Battle Mountain, near Newby's Cross 
Roads, Va, 

July 25. — Headquarters Army of the Potomac moved from 
Salem to Warrenton; the First Corps from Warrenton to 
Warrenton Junction, the Second Division (Robinson's) going 
on to Bealeton; the Second Corps from Markham Station to 
White Plains; the Third Corps from Manassas Gap to near 
Salem; the Fifth Corps from Manassas Gap, via Farrowsville 
and Barbee's Cross Roads, to Thumb Run; the Sixth Corps 
concentrated at Warrenton, Wright's (First) Division moving 
from New Baltimore, Howe's (Second) Division from Orleans, 
and Bartlett's (Third) Division from Thumb Run; the Elev- 
enth Corps moved from New Baltimore to Warrenton Junc- 
tion; and the Twelfth Corps from Piedmont, via Rectortown 
and White Plains, to Thoroughfare Gap ; the Artillery Reserve 
reached Warrenton; Kelley's command, Department of West 
Virginia, occupied Martinsburg. 

Combats: Skirmish at Barbee's Cross Roads, Va. 

July 2^.— The Second Corps marched from White Plains to 
near Germantown; the Third Corps from near Salem to vicin- 
ity of Warrenton ; the Fifth Corps from Thumb Run to vicinity 
of Warrenton, Crawford's (Third) Division taking position at 
Fayetteville ; and the Twelfth Corps from Thoroughfare Gap, 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 139 

via Greenwich and Catlett's Station, to Warrenton Junction; 
Buford's Cavalry Division took position at Warrenton and 
Fayetteville ; Mcintosh's Brigade, of Gregg's Cavalry Division, 
marched from Snickersville, via Upperville, to Middleburg; 
Kelley's command. Department of West Virginia, occupied 
Winchester. 

July 27. — The Fifth Corps encamped between Warrenton 
and Fayetteville; Mcintosh's Brigade, of Gregg's Cavalry Di- 
vision, marched from Middleburg, via White Plains, New Bal- 
timore and Warrenton, toward Warrenton Junction. 

July 28. — Mcintosh's Brigade, of Gregg's Cavalry Division, 
moved via Warrenton Junction, to Catlett's Station. 

July 29. — D. McM. Gregg's Cavalry Division moved from 
Warrenton Junction and Catlett's Station to Warrenton. 

July 30. — Kenly's (Third) Division, First Corps, moved from 
Warrenton Junction to Rappahannock Station; the Second 
Corps from near Germantown to Elk Run; D. McM. Gregg's 
Cavalry Division from Warrenton to Amissville; and Kilpat- 
rick's Cavalry Division from Amissville to Warrenton. 

July 31. — The Second Corps marched from Elk Run to Mor- 
risville; Howe's (Second) Division, Sixth Corps, from Warren- 
ton to near Waterloo; the Twelfth Corps from Warrenton 
Junction to Kelly's Ford; and Kilpatrick's Cavalry Division 
from Warrenton to Warrenton Junction. 



140 Pennsylvania at Gettjjshurg. 

OKGANIZATION OF THE AKMY OF THE POTOMAC, 
COMMANDED BY MAJ.-GEN. GEORGE G. MEADE, 
U. S. ARMY, AT THE BATTLE OF GETTYSBURG, 
PENNSYLVANIA, JULY^ 1-3, 1863. 



GENERAL HEADQUARTERS. 

COMMAND OF THE PROVOST-MARSHAL-GENERAL. 

Brig. -Gen. Marsena R. Patrick. 
93d New York,* Col. John S. Crocker. 

Sth United States (eight companies),* Capt. Edwin W. H. Read. 

2d Pennsylvania Cavalry, Col R. Butler Price. 

6th Pennsylvania Cavalry, Companies E and I, Capt. James Starr. 
Regular cavalry (detachments from 1st, 2d, Sth and 6th Regiments) . 

SIGNAL CORPS. 

Capt. Lemuel B. Norton. 

GUARDS AND ORDERLIES. 

Oneida (New York) Cavalry, Capt. Daniel P. Mann. 

ARTILLERY, t 
Brig. -Gen. Henry J. Hunt. 

ENGINEER BRIGADE.! 
Brig. -Gen. Henry W. Beniiam. 
15th New York (three companies), Maj. Walter L. Cassin. 
50th New York, Col. William H. Pettes. 
United States Battalion, Capt. George H. Mendell. 

FIRST ARMY CORPS. § 

Maj. -Gen. Abner Doubleday. 
Maj. -Gen. John Newton. 

GENERAL HEADQUARTERS. 

1st Maine Cavalry, Company L, Capt. Constantine Taylor. 

FIRST DIVISION. 

Brig. -Gen. James S. Wadsworth. 
First Brigade. Second Brigade. 

Brig. -Gen. Solomon Meredith. i Brig. -Gen. Lysander Cutler. 

Col. William W. Robinson. I 7th Indiana, Col. Ira G. Grover. 

19th Indiana, Col. Sam'l J. Wil- I 76th New York: 

liams. Maj. Andrew J. Grover. 

24th Michigan : Capt. John E. Cook. 

Col. Henry A. Morrow. I 84th New York (14th Militia), 
Capt. Albert M. Edwards. Col. Edward B. Fowler. 

2d Wisconsin : I 95th New York : 

Col. Lucius Fairchild. ! Col. George H. Biddle. 

Maj. John Mansfield. ' Maj. Edward Pye. 

Capt. George H. Otis. ; 147th New York: 

6th Wisconsin, Lieut. Col. Rufus ; Lieut. Col. Francis C. 

R. Dawes. Miller. 

7th Wisconsin: Maj. George Harney. 

Col. William W. Robinson. 56th Pennsylvania (nine compa- 

Maj. Mark Finnicum. nies) , Col. J. Wm. Hof- 

mann. 

*Kot engaged. 

tSee artillery brigades attached to army corps and the reserve. 

JNot engaged. With exception of the regular battalion, it was, July 1, and while at 
Beaver Dam Creek, Md., ordered to M'ashington, D. C, where it arrived July 3. 

§Maj. Gen. John F. Reynolds, of this corps, was killed July 1, while in command of 
the left wing of the army; General Doubleday commanded the corps July 1, and Gen- 
eral Newton, who was assigned to that command on the 1st, superseded him July 2. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



141 



SECOND DIVISION. 

Brig. -Gen. John C. Robinson. 



First Brigade. 

Brig. -Gen. Gabriel R. Paul. 
Col. Samuel H. Leonard. 
Col. Adrian R. Root. 
Col. Richard Coulter. 
Col. Peter Ltle. 
Col. Richard Coulter. 

16th Maine : 

Col. Charles W. Tilden. 
Maj. Archibald D. Leavitt. 
13th Massachusetts : 

Col. Samuel H. Leonard. 
Lieut. -Col. N. Walter Batch- 
elder. 
94th New York : 

Col. Adrian R. Root. 
Maj. Samuel A. MofPett. 
104th New York, Col. GUbert G. 

Prey. 
107th Pennsylvania : 

Lieut. -Col. James MacThom- 

son. 
Capt. Emanuel D. Roath. 



Second Brigade. 
Brig. -Gen. Henry Baxter. 

12th Massachusetts : 

Col. James L. Bates. 

Lieut. -Col. David Allen, Jr. 
S3d New York (9th Militia), Lieut. 

Col. Joseph A. Moesch. 
97th New York : 

Col. Charles Wheelock. 

Maj. Charles Northrup. 
11th Pennsylvania:* 

Col. Richard Coulter. 

Capt. Benjamin F. Haines. 

Capt. John B. Overmeyer. 
SSth Pennsylvania : 

Maj. Benezet F. Foust. 

Capt. Henry Whiteside. 
90th Pennsylvania : 

Col. Peter Lyle. 

Maj. Alfred J. Sellers. 

Col. Peter Lyle. 



third division. 



Brig. -Gen. Thomas A. Rowley 
Maj. -Gen. Abner .Doubleday. 



First Brigade. 

Col. Chapman Biddle. 

Brig. -Gen. Thomas A. Rowley. 

Col. Chapman Biddle. 

80th New York (20th Militia), Col. 

Theodore B. Gates. 
121st Pennsylvania: 

Maj. Alexander Biddle. 
Col. Chapman Biddle. 
Maj. Alexander Biddle. 
Pennsylvania : 
Col. Robert P. Cummins. 
Lieut. -Col. Alfred B. McCal- 
mont. 
151st Pennsylvania : 

Lieut. -Col. George F. Mc- 

Farland. 
Capt. Walter L. Owens. 
Col. Harrison Allen. 



142d 



Second Brigade. 

Col. Roy Stone. 

Col. Langhorne Wister. 

Col. Edmund L. Dana. 

143d Pennsylvania : 

Col. Edmund L. Dana. 

Lieut. -Col. John D. Musser. 
149th Pennsylvania : 

Lieut. -Col. Walton Dwight. 

Capt. James Glenn. 
150th Pennsylvania : 

Col. Lanshorne Wister. 

Lieut. -Col. Henry S. Huide- 
koper. 

Capt. Cornelius C. Widdis. 



Third Brigade. 

Brig. -Gen. George J. Stannard. 
Col. Francis V. Randall. 

12th Vermont, t Col. Asa P. Blunt. 
13th Vermont : 

Col. Francis V. Randall. 

Maj. Joseph J. Boynton. 

Lieut. Col. William D. Munson. 
14th Vermont, Col. William T. Nichols. 
15th Vermont,! Col. Redfield Proctor. 
16th Vermont, Col. Wheelock G. Veazey. 



•Transferred in afternoon of July 1 to First Brigade. 
tGuarding trains and not engaged in the battle. 



142 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



AKTILLERY BRIGADE. 

Col. Charles S. Wain weight. 

Maine Light, 2d Battery (B), Capt. James A. Hall. 
xMaine Light, 5th Battery (E) : 

Capt. Greeuleaf T. Stevens. 
1st New York Light, Battery L :* 

Lieut. Edward N. Whittier. 

Capt. (iilbert H. Reynolds. 

Lieut. George Break. 
1st Pennsylvania Light, Battery B, Capt. James H. Cooper. 
4th United States, Battery B, Lieut. James Stewart. 

SECOND ARMY CORPS. t 
Maj.-Gen. WiNiFiELD S. Hancock. 
Brig. -Gen. John Gibson. 



GENERAL HEADQARTERS. 

6th New Y'ork Cavalry, Companies D and K, Capt. Riley Johnson. 

FIRST DIVISION. 

Brig. -Gen. John C. Caldwell. 



First Brigade. 

Col. Edward E. Cross. 
Col. H. Boyd McKeen. 

5th New Hampshire, Lieut. -Col. 

Charles E. Hapgood. 
61st New York, Lieut. -Col. K. Os- 
car Broady. 
81st Pennsylvania : 

Col. H. Boyd McKeen. 
Lieut. -Col. Amos Stroh. 
148th Pennsylvania, Lieut. ^Col. 
Rob't McFarlane. 

Second Brigade. 

Col. Patrick Kelley. 

2Sth Pennsylvania, Col. Richard 

Byrnes. 
63d New York (two companies) : 
Lieut. -Col. Rich'd C. Bent- 
ley. 

Capt. Thomas Touby. 
69th New York (two companies): 
Capt. Richard Moroney. 
Lieut. James J. Smith. 
88th New York (two companies), 

Capt. Denis P. Burke. 
116th Pennsylvania (four compa- 
nies), Maj. St. Clair A. 
Mulholland . 



Third Brigade. 

Brig. -Gen. Samuel K. Zook. 
Lieut. -Col. John Eraser. 

52d New York : 

Lieut. -Col. C. G. Freuden- 

berg. 
Capt. William Scherrer. 
57th New York, Lieut. -Col. Alford 

B. Chapman. 
66th New York : 

Col. Orlando H. Morris. 
Lieut. -Col. John S. Ham- 

mell. 
Maj. Peter Nelson. 
140th Pennsylvania : 

Col. Richard P. Roberts. 
Lieut. -Col. John Eraser. 

Fourth Brigade. 

Col. John R. Brooke. 

27th Connecticut (two companies) : 
Lieut. ^Col. Henry C. Mer- 

win. 
Maj. James H. Coburn. 
2d Delaware : 

Col. William P. Baily. 
Capt. Charles H. Christman. 
64th New York : 

Col. Daniel G. Bingham. 
Maj. Leman W. Bradley. 
53d Penn.sylvania, Lieu t.-C o 1. 

Richards McMichael. 
145th Pennsylvania (seven compan- 
ies) : 
Col. Hiram L. Brown. 
Capt. John W. Reynolds. 
Capt. Moses W. Oliver. 



*Battery E, 1st New York Light artillery, attached. 

tAfter the death of General Reynolds, General Hancock -was assigned to the com- 
inand of all the troops on the field of battle, relieving General Howard, who had suc- 
ceeded General Reynolds. General Gibbon, of the Second Division, assumed command 
of the corps. These assignments terminated on the evening of July 1. Similar changes 
in commanders occurred during the battle of the 2d, when General Hancock was put in 
command of the Third Corps, in addition to that of his own. He was wounded on the 
3d, and Brig. -Gen. William Hays was assigned to the command of the corps. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



143 



SECOND DIVISION. 

Brig. -Gen. John Gibbon. 
Brig. -Gen. William Harrow. 



First Brigade. 

Brig. -Gen. William Harrow. 
Col. Francis B. Heath. 

19th Maine : 

Col. Francis E. Heath. 
Lieut. -Col. Henry W. Cun- 
ningham. 
15th Massachusetts: 

Col. George H. Ward. 
Lieut. -Col. George C. Joslin. 
1st Minnesota :* 

Col. William Colvill, Jr. 
Capt. Nathan S. Messick. 
Capt. Henry C. Coates. 
82d New York (2d Militia) : 

Lieut. -Col. James Huston. 
Capt. John Darrow. 

Second Brigade. 
Brig. -Gen Alexander S. Webb. 

69th Pennsylvania : 

Col. Dennis O'Kane. 

Capt. William Davis. 
71st Pennsylvania, Col. Richard 

Penn Smith. 
72d Pennsvlvania : 

Col. De Witt C. Baxter. 

Lieut-Col. Theodore Hesser. 
106 Pennsylvania, Lieut. -Col. Wm. 
L. Curry. 



Third Brigade. 

Col. Norman J. Hall. 

19th Massachusetts, Col. Arthur F. 

Devereux . 
20th Massachusetts : 

Col. Paul J. Revere. 
Lieut. -Col. George N. Macy. 
Capt. Henry L. Abbott. 
7th Michigan : 

Lieut. -Col. Amos E. Steele, 

jr. 
Maj. Sylvanus W. Curtis. 
42d New York, Col. Jas. E. Mal- 

lon. 
59th New York (four companies) : 
Lieut. -Col. Max A. Thoman 
Capt. William McFadden. 

Unattached. 

Massachusetts Sharpshooters, 1st 
company : 
Capt. William Plumer. 
Lieut. Emerson L. Bicknell. 



THIRD division. 

Brig. -Gen. Alexander Hays. 



First Brigade. 
Col. Samuel S. Carroll. 

14th Indiana, Col. John Coons. 

4th Ohio, Lieut. -Col. Leonard W. 
Carpenter. 

Sth Ohio, Lieut. -Col. Franklin Saw- 
yer. 

7th West Virginia, Lieut. -Col. Jon- 
athan H. Lockwood. 



Second Brigade. 

Col. Thomas A. Smyth. 

Lion t. -Col. Francis E. Pierce. 
14th Connecticut, Maj. Theodore G. 
Ellis. 
1st Delaware: 

Lieut. -Col. Edward P. Har- 
ris. 
Capt. Thomas B. Hizar. 
Lieut. William Smith. 
Lieut. John T. Dent. 
12th New Jersey, Maj. John T. 

Hill. 
10th New York (battalion), Maj. 
George F. Hopper. 
lOSth New York, Lieut. -Col. Francis 
E. Pierce. 



•2d Company Minnesota Sharpshooters attached. 



144 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 



Third Brigade. 

Col. George L. Willard. 
Col. Eliakim Sherrill. 
Lieut. -Col. James M. Bull. 

89th New York (four companies), Maj. Hugo Hildebraudt. 
llUh New York: 

Col. Clinton D. Mac Dougall. 
Lieut. -Col. Isaac M. Lusk. 
Capt. Aaron P. Seeley. 
125th New York : 

Lieut. -Col. Levin Crandell. 
126th New York : 

Col. Eliakim Sherrill. 
Lieut. -Col. James M. Bull. 

ARTILLERY BRIGADE. 

Capt. John G. Hazzard. 

1st New York Light, Battery B :* 

Lieut. Albert S. Sheldon. 

Captain James McKay Korty. 

Lieut. Robert E. Rogers. 
1st Rhode Island Light, Battery A, Capt. William A. Arnold 
1st Rhode Island Light, Battery B : 

liieut. T. Fred. Brown. 

Lieut. William S. Perrin. 
1st United States, Battei-y I : 

Lieut. George A. Woodruff. 

Lieut . Tully McCrea . 
4th United States, Battery A: 

Lieut. Alonzo H. Cushing. 

Sergt. Frederick Fuger. 

THIRD ARMY CORPS. 

Maj. -Gen. Daniel E. Sickles. 
Maj. -Gen. David B. Birney. 

FIRST division. 

Maj. -Gen. David B. Birney. 
Brig. -Gen. J. H. Hobart Ward. 



First Brigade. 


Second Brigade. 


Brig. -Gen. Charles K. Graham. 


Brig. -Gen. J. H. Hobart Ward. 


Col. Andrew H. Tlppin. 


Col. Hiram Berdan. 


57th Pennsylvania (eight com- 


20th Indiana : 


panies) : 


Col. John Wheeler. 


Col. Peter Sides. 


Lieut. -Col. William C. L. 


Capt. Alanson H. Nelson. 


Taylor. 


63d Pennsylvania, Maj. John A. 


.3d Maine, Col. Moses B. Lake- 


Danks. 


Man. 


6Sth Pennsylvania : 


4th Maine : 


Col. Andrew H. Tippin. 


Col. Elijah Walker. 


Capt. Milton S. Davis [?]. 


Capt. Edwin Libby. 


105th Pennsylvania, Col. Calvin A. 


86th New York, Lieut. -Col. Benja- 


Craig. 


min L. Higgins. 


114th Pennsylvania : 


124th New York: 


Lieut. -Col. Frederick F. Ca- 


Col. A. Van Home Ellis. 


vada. 


Lieut. -Col. Francis M. Cum- 


Capt. Edward R. Bowen. 


mins. 


141st Pennsvlvania, Col. Henry J. 


99th Pennsylvania, Major John W. 


Madill. 


Moore . 




1st United States Sharpshooters : 




Col. Hiram Berdan. 




Lieut. -Col. Caspar Trepp. 




2d United States Sharpshooters 




(eight companies), Maj. 




Homer R. Stoughton. 



♦Transferred from Artillery Keserve, July 1; 14th New York Battery attached. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



145 



Third Brigade. 

Col. P. Regis De Trobkiand. 

17th Maine, Lieut. -Col. Charles B. Merrill. 
3d Michigan : 

Col. Byron R. Pierce. 
Tiieut.-Col. Edwin S. Pierce. 
5th Michigan, Lieut. -Col. John Pulford. 
40th New York, Col. Thomas W. Egau. 
110th Pennsylvania (six companies) : 
Lieut. -Col. David M. Jones. 
Maj. Isaac Rogers. 



SECOND DIVISION. 

Brii;.-Gen. Andrew A. Humphreys. 



First Brigade. 

Brig. -Gen. Joseph B. Cabe. 

• 
1st Massachusetts, Lieut. -Col. 

Clark B. Baldwin. 
11th Massachusetts, Lieut. -Col. Por- 
ter D. Tripp. 
16th Massachusetts : 

Lieut. -Col. Waldo Merriam. 
Capt. Matthew Donovan. 
12th New Hampshire, Capt. John F. 

Langley. 
11th New Jersey : 

Col. Robert McAllister. 
Capt. Luther Martin. 
Lieut. John Schoouover. 
Capt. William H. Loyd. 
Capt. Samuel T. Sleeper. 
Lieut. John Schoonover. 
26th Pennsylvania, Maj. Robert L. 

Bodine. 
84th Pennsylvania,* Lieut. -Col. Mil- 
ton Opp. 



Second Brigade. 
Col. William R. Brewster. 

70th New York, Col. J. Egbert 

Fa mum. 
71st New York, Col. Henry L. 

Potter. 
72d New York : 

Col. John S. Austin. 

Lieut. -Col. John Leonard. 
7od New York, Maj. Michael W. 

Burns. 
74th New York, Lieut. -Col. Thomas 

Holt. 
120th New York : 

Lieut. -Col. Cornelius D. 

Westbrook . 
Major John R. Tappen. 



Third Brigade. 

Col. George C. Burling. 

2d New Hampshire, Col. Edwai'd L. Bailey. 
5th New Jersey : 

Col. William J. Sewell. 

Capt. Thomas C. Godfrey. 

Capt. Henry H. Woolsey. 
6th New Jersey, Lieut. -Col. Stephen R. Gilkysou, 
7th New Jersey : 

Col. Louis R. Francine. 

Maj. Frederick Coope-r. 
8th New Jersey : 

Col. John Ramsey. 

Capt. John G. Langston. 
115th Pennsylvania, Maj. John. P. Dunne. 



'Guarding corps trains, and not engaged in the battle. 



146 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



ARTILLERY BRIGADE- 



Capt. George E. Randall. 

Capt. A. judson Clark. 
New Jersey Light, 2d Battery : 

Capt. A. Judson Clark. 

Lieut. Robert Sims.' 
1st New York Light, Battery D, Capt. George B. Wiuslow. 
New York Light, 4th Battery, Capt. James E. Smith. 
1st Rhode Island Light, Battery E: 

Lieut. John K. Bucklyn. 

Lieut. Benjamin Freeborn. 
4th United States, Battery K: 

Lieut. Francis W. Seeley. 

Lieut. Robert James. 

FIFTH ARMY CORPS. 

Maj.-Gen. George Sykes. 

GENERAL HEADQARTERS . 

12th New York Infantry, Companies D and E, Capt. Henry W. Ryder. 
17th Pennsylvania Cavalry, Companies D and H, Capt. William Thompson. 

FIRST DIVISION. 

Brig. -Gen. James ■Barnes. 



First Brigade. 

Col. William S. Tilson. 

18th Massachusetts, Col. Joseph 

Hayes. 
2'2d Massachusetts, Lieut. -Colonel 
Thos. Sherwin, Jr. 
1st Michigan : 

Col. Ira C. Abbott. 
Lieut. -Col. Wm. A. Throop. 
118th Pennsylvania, Lieut. -Col. Jas. 
Gwyn. 



Second Brigade. 
Col. Jacx)b B. Sweitzee. 

9th Massachusetts, Col. Patrick R. 

Guiney. 
32d Massachusetts, Col. G. L. Pres- 

cott. 
4th Michigan: 

Col. Harrison H. Jeffords. 
Lieut. -Col. Geo. W. Lum- 
bard. 
62d Pennsylvania, Lieut. -Col. James 
C. Hull. 



Third Brigade. 
Col. Strong Vincent. 
Col. James C. Rice. 
20th Maine, Col. Joshua L. Chamberlain. 
16th Michigan, Lieut. -Col. Norval E. Welch. 
44th New York : 

Col. James C. Rice. 
Lieut. -Col. Freeman Conner. 
83d Pennsylvania, Capt. Orpheus S. Woodward. 

second division. 
Brig. -Gen. Romeyn B. Ayres. 



First Brigade. 
Col. Hannibal Day. 



3d 



United States (six companies) : 

Capt. Henry W. Freedley. 

Capt. Richard G. Lay. 

4th United States (four companies) , 

Cap. Julius W. Adams, Jr. 

6th United States (five companies), 

Capt. Levi C^. Bootes. 
12th United States 
panies) , 
Capt. Thomas 
14th United States 
panies) , 
Maj. Grotius R. Giddings. 



( eight C': 

S. Dunn. 
( eight cc 



Second Brigade. 

Col. Sidney Bubbank. 

2d United States (six companies) : 
Maj. Arthur T. Lee. 
Capt. Samuel A. McKee. 
7th United States (four com- 
panies) , 
Capt. David P. Hancock. 
10th United States (three com- 
panies) , 
Capt. William Clinton. 
11th United States (six com- 
panies) , 
Maj. DeLancey Floyd- Jones. 
17th United States (seven com- 
panies ) , 
Lieut. -Col. J. Durell Greene. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



147 



Col. 



Third Brigade. 

Brig. -Gen. Stephen H. Weed. 

Col. Keneb Garkard. 
140th New York : 

Col. Patrick H. O'Rorke. 

Lieut. -Col. Louis Ernst. 
146tli New York : 

Col. Kenner Garrard. 

Lieut. -Col. David T. Jenkins. 
91st Pennsylvania, Lieut-Col. Joseph H. Sinex. 
155th Pennsylvania, Lieut. -Col. John H. Cain. 

THIRD DIVISION.* 

Brig. -Gen. SAiruEL W. Crawford. 
First Brigade. Third Brigade. 

Wn.LiAM McCandless I 



1st Pennsylvania Reserves (nine 

companies). Col. William 

C. Talley. 
2d Pennsylvania Reserves, Lieut. - 

Col. George A. Woodward. 
6th Pennsylvania Reserves, Lieut. - 

Col. Wellington H. Ent. 
loth Pennsylvania Reserves : 

Col. Charles F. Taylor. 

Maj. William R. Harts- 
home. 



Col. Joseph W. Fisher. 

5th Pennsylvania Reserves, Lieut. - 

Col. George Dare. 
9th Pennsylvania Reserves, Lieut. - 

Col. James McK. Snod- 

grass . 
10th Pennsylvania Reserves, Col. 

Adoniram J. Warner. 
11th Pennsylvania Reserves, Col. 

Samuel M. Jackson. 
12th Pennsylvania Reserves (nine 

companies). Col. Martin D. 

Hardin . 



ARTILLERY BRIGADE. 

Capt. Augustus P. Martin. 
Massachusetts Light, 3d Battery (C), Lieut. Aaron F. Walcott. 
1st New York Light, Battery C, Capt. Almont Barnes. 
1st Ohio Light, Battery L. Captain Frank C. Bibbs. 
5th United States, Battery D: 
Lieut. Charles E. Hazlett. 

Benj. F. Rittenhouse. 
States, Battery 1 : 
Malbone F. Watson. 
Charles C. MacConnell. 



Lieut 

5th United 

Lieut 

Lieut 



SIXTH ARMY CORPS. 
Maj. -Gen. John Sedgwick. 



general headquarters. 
1st New Jersey Cavalry, Company L, 
1st Pennsylvania Cavalry, Company H 



Capt. William S. Craft. 



Bria 



FIRST division. 

-Gen. Horatio G. Wright. 



Provost Guard. 
4th New Jersey (three companies), Capt. William R. Maxwell. 



First Brigade. 
Brig. -Gen. A. T. A. Tobbert. 

1st New Jersey, Lieut. -Col. Wil- 
liam Henry, Jr. 

2d New Jersey, Lieut. -Col. Chas. 
Wiebecke. 

3d New Jersey, Lieut. -Col. Ed- 
ward L. Campbell. 
15th New Jersey, Col. William H. 
Penrose. 

*Jolned corps June 28. The Second Brigade left in the Department of Washington. 
tAlso in command of the Third Brigade, Third Division, on July 3. 



Second Brigade. 

Brig. -Gen. Joseph J. Bartlett.I 

5th Maine, Col. Clark S. Edwards. 
121st New York, Col. Emory Upton. 
95th Pennsylvania, Lieut. -Col. Ed- 
ward Carroll. 
96th Pennsylvania, Maj. William 
H. Lessig. 



148 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 



Third Brigade. 
Brig. -Gen. David A. Russell. 
6th Maine, Col. Hiram Burnham. 
49th Pennsylvania (four companies), Lieut. -Col. Thomas M. Hulings. 
119th Pennsylvania, Col. Peter C. Ellmaker. 
5th Wisconsin, Col. Thomas S. Allen. 

SECOND DIVISION.* 

Brig. -Gen. Albion P. Howe. 



Second Brigade. 
Col. Lewis A. Grant. 



2d 
3d 



Vermont, Col. James H. Wal- 

bridge. 
Vermont, Col. Thomas O. Sea- 
ver. 

4th Vermont, Col. Charles B. 
Stoughton. 

5th Vermont, Lieut. -Col. John R. 
Lewis . 

6th Vermont, Col. Elislia L. Bar- 
ney. 



Bri£ 



Third Brigade. 
-Gen. Thomas H. Neill. 



7th Maine (six companies), Lieut. - 
Col. Selden Connor. 

33d New York (detachment), Capt. 
Henry J. Gifford. 

43d New York, Lieut. -Col. John 
Wilson. 

49th New York, Col. Daniel D. Bid- 
well. 

77th New York, Lieut. -Col. Winsor 
B. French. 

61st Pennsylvania, Lieut. -Col. Geo. 
F. Smith. 



third division. 
Ma j. -Gen. John Newton. 
Brig. -Gen. Frank Wheaton. 



First Brigade. 
Brig. -Gen. Alexander Shaler. 

65th New York, Col. Joseph E. 

Hamblin. 
67th New York, Col. Nelson Cross. 
122d New York, Col. Silas Titus. 
23d Pennsylvania, Lieut. -Col. John 

F. Glenn. 
82d Pennsylvania, Col. Isaac C. 

Bassett. 



Second Brigade. 

Col. Henry L. Eustis. 

7th Massachusetts, L i e u t.-C o 1. 
Franklin P. Harlow. 
10th Massachusetts, Lieut. -Col. Jos. 

B. Parsons. 
37th Massachusetts, Col. Oliver Ed- 
wards. 
2d Rhode Island, Col. Horatio 
Rogers, Jr. 



Third Brigade. 
Brig. -Gen. Frank Wheaton. 
Col. David J. Nevin. 
62d New York: 

Col. David J. Nevin. 
Lieut. -Col. Theodore B. Hamilton. 
93d Pennsylvania, Maj. John I. Nevin. 
98th Pennsylvania, Maj. John B. Kohler. 
102d Pennsylvania,! Col. John W. Patterson. 
139th Pennsylvania : 

Col. Frederick H. Collier. 
Lieut. -Col. William H. Moody. 

ARTILLERY BRIGADE- 

Col. Charles H. Tompkins. 
Massachusetts Light, 1st Battery (A), Capt. William H. McCartney. 
New York Lisht, 1st Battery, Capt. Andrew Cowan. 
New York Liglit, 3d Battery, Capt. William A. Harn. 
1st Rhode Island Light, Battery C, Capt. Richard Waterman. 
1st Rhode Island Light, Battery G, Capt. George W. Adams. 
2d United States, Battery D, Lieut. Edward B. Williston. 
2d United States, Battery G, Lieut. John H. Butler. 
5th United States, Battery F, Lieut. Leonard Martin. 



*No First Brigade in division. 
tGuarding wagon train at Westminster, 



and not engaged in the battle. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



149 



ELEVENTH ARMY CORPS.* 
Maj.-Gen. Oliver O. Howaku. 

GENERAL HEADQARTERS. 

1st Indiana Cavalry, Companies I and K, Capt. Abram Sharra. 
Sth New Yorlv Infantry (one company), Lieut. Hermann Foerster 

FIRST DIVISION. 

Brig. -Gen. Francis C 



Col. 



Brig. -Gen. 
First Brigade. 
Leopold von Gilsa. 



Barlow . 

Adelbert Ames. 



41sl New York (nine companies), 

Lieut. -Col. Detleo von 

Einsiedel. 
54th New York : 

Maj. Stephen Kovacs. 

Lieut. Ernest Both [?]. 
68th New York, Col. Gotthilf 

Bourry . 
153d Pennsylvania, Maj. John 

Frueauff . 



First Brigade. 

CoL Charles R. Coster. 

134th New York, Lieut. -Col. Allan 

H . Jackson . 
154th New York, Lieut. -Col. D. B. 

Allen . 
27th Pennsylvania, Lieut. -Col. Lo- 

renz Cantador. 
73d Pennsylvania, Capt. D. F. 
Kelley . 



Second Brigade. 

Brig. -Gen. Adelbert Ames. 
Col. Andrew L. Harris. 

17th Connecticut : 

Lieut. -Col. Douglas Fowler. 

Maj. Allen G. Brady. 
25th Ohio : 

Lieut. -Col. Jeremiah Wil- 
liams. 

Capt. Nathaniel ^J. Manning. 

Lieut. William 'Maloney. 

Lieut. Israel White. 
75th Ohio: 

Col. Andrew L. Harris. 

Capt. George B. Fox. 
107th Ohio: 

Col. Seraphim Meyer. 

Capt. John M. Lutz. 

second division. 
Brig. -Gen. Adolph von Steinwehr. 

Second Brigade. 
Col. Orland Smith. 

33d Massachusetts, Col. Adiu B. 

Underwood . 
136th New York, Col. James Wood, 
Jr. 

55th Ohio, Col. Charles B. Gam- 
bee. 

73d Ohio, Lieut. -Col. Richard 
Long . 



THIRD division. 

Maj.-Gen. Carl Schurz. 



First Brigade. 

Brig. -Gen. Alex. Schimmelfennig. 
Col. George von Amsberg. 

82d Illinois, Lieut. -Col. Edward S. 

Salomon. 
45th New York : 

Col. George von Amsberg. 
Lieut. -Col. Adolphus Dobke. 
157th New York, Col. Philip P. 

Brown, Jr. 
61st Ohio, Col. Stephen J. Mc- 

Groarty. 
74th Pennsylvania : 

Col. Adolph von Hartung 
Lieut. -Col. Alex, von Mitzel. 
Capt. Gustav Schleiter. 
Capt. Henry Krauseneck. 



Second Brigade. 
CoL W. Krzyzanowski. 

58th New York : 

Lieut. -Col. August Otto 

Capt. Emil Koenig. 
119th New York : 

Col. John T. Lockman. 

Lieut. -Col. Edward 
Floyd. 
82d Ohio: 

Col. James S. Robinson. 

Lieut. -Col. David Thomson 
75th Pennsylvania : 

Col. Francis Mahler. 

Maj. August Ledig. 
26th Wisconsin : 

Lieut. -Col. Hans Boebel. 

Capt. John W. Fuchs. 



F. 



*During the interval between the death of General Reynolds and the arrival of Gen- 
eral Hancock, on the afternoon of July 1, all the troops on the field of battle were com- 
manded by General Howard, General Schurz taking command of the Eleventh Corps 
and General Schimmelfennig of the Third Division. 
11 



150 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



ARTILLERY BRIGADE. 

Maj. Thomas W. Osborn. 

1st New York Light, Battery I, Copt. Michael Weidrich. 
New York Light, 13th Battery, Lieut. William Wheeler. 
1st Ohio Light, Battery I, Capt. Hubert Dilger. 
1st Ohio Light, Battery K, Capt. Lewis Heckmau. 
4th United States, Battery G: 

Lieut. Bayard Wilkeson. 

Lieut. Eugene A. Brancroft. 



TWELFTH ARMY CORPS. 

Maj. -Gen. Henry W. Slocum.* 
Brig. -Gen. Alpiieus S. Williams. 



• PROVOST GUARD . 

10th Maine (four companies), Capt. 



John D. Beardsley. 



first division. 

Brig. -Gen. Alpheus S. 
Brig. -Gen. Thomas H. 



First Brigade. I 

Col. Archibald L. McDougall. 

5th Connecticut, Col. Warren W. 
Packer. 
. 20th Connecticut, Lieut. Col. Wil- 
liam B. Wooster. 
3d Maryland, Col. Joseph M. 
Sudsburg. 
123d New York : 

Lieut. -Col. James C. Rogers. 

Capt. Adolphus H. Tanner. 

145th New York, Col. E. Livingston 

Price . 
46th Pennsylvania, Col. James L. 
Self ridge. 



Brig, 



Williams. 

RUGER. 

Second Brigade. f 
-Gen. Henry H. Lockwood. 



1st Maryland, Potomac, Home 

Brigade, Col. William P. 

Maulsby . 
1st Maryland, Eastern Shore, Col. 

James Wallace. 
150th Now York, Col. John H. 

Ketcham . 



Third Brigade. 

Brig. -Gen. Thomas H. Ruger. 
Col. Silas Colgrove. 
27th Indiana : 

Col. Silas Colgrove. 
Lieut. -Col. John R. Fesler. 
2d Massachusetts: 

Lieut. -Col. Charles R. Mudge. 
Maj. Charles F. Morse. 
13th New Jersev, Col. Ezra A. Carman. 
107th New York, Col. Nirom M. Crane. 
3d Wisconsin, Col. William Hawley. 



♦Exercised command of the right wing of the army during a part of the battle. 

fUnassigned during progress of battle; afterward attached to Pirst Division as Second 
Brigade. The command theretofore known as the Second (or Jacljson's) Brigade had 
previously been consolidated with the First Brigade. 



Pennsylvania at Gettys'biirg. 



151 



Bri 

First Brigade. 

Col. Charles Candy. 

5th Ohio, Col. John H. Patrick. 

7th Ohio, Col. William R. Creigh- 

ton. 
29th Ohio : 

Capt. Wilbur F. Stevens. 
Capt. Edward Hayes. 
66th Ohio, Lieut. -Col. Eugene Pow- 
ell. 
2Sth Pennsylvania, Capt. John 

Flynn . 
147th Pennsylvania (eight com- 
panies), Lieut. -Col. Ario 
Pardee, Jr. 



SECOND DIVISION. 

Gen. John W. Geary. 



Second Brigade. 

Col. George A. Cobham, Jr. 

Brig. -Gen. Thomas L. Kane. 

Col. George A. Cobham, Jr. 

29th Pennsylvania, Col. William 

Rickards, Jr. 
109th Pennsylvania, Capt. F. L. 

Gimber. 
111th Pennsylvania : 

Lieut. -Col. Thos. M. Walker. 
Col. George A. Cobham, Jr. 
Lieut. -Col. Thos. M. Walker. 



Third Brigade. 
Brig. -Gen. George S. Greene. 

60th New York, Col. Abel Godard. 

78th New York, Lieut. -Col. Herbert von Hammerstein. 
102d New York : 

Col. James C. Lane. 
Capt. Lewis R. Stegman. 
187th New York, Col. David Ireland. 
149th New York: 

Col. Henry A. Barnum. 

Lieut. -Col. Charles B. Randall. 



ARTILLERY BRIGADE. 

Lieut. Edward D. Muhlenberg. 
1st New York Light, Battery M, Lieut. Charles E. Winegar. 
Pennsvlvania Light, Battery E, Lieut. Charles A. Atwell. 
4th Uiaited States, Battery F, Lieut. Sylvanus T. Rugg. 
5th United States, Battery K, Lieut. David H. Kiuzie. 

CAVALRY CORPS. 

Maj . -Gen . Alfred Pleasonton . 

FIRST DIVISION. 



Brig. -Gen 
First Brigade. 
Col. William Gamble. 
8th Illinois, Maj. John L. Bever- 

idge. 
12th Illinois (four cos.) Col. G. H 
od Indiana (six cos.) Chapman 
Sth New York, Lieut. -Col. Wil- 
liam L. Mark ell. 



John Buford. 

Second Brigade. 
Col. Thomas C. Devin. 
6th New York, Maj. W. E. Beards- 
ley. 
9th New York, Col. William Sack- 

ett. 
17th Pennsylvania, Col. J. H. Kel- 
logg. . ^ 
3d West Virginia (two companies) , 
Capt. Seymour B. Conger. 



Reserve Brigade . 

Brig. -Gen. Wesley Merritt. 
Gth Pennsvlvania, Maj. James H. Haseltine. 
1st United States, Capt. Richard S. C. Lord. 
2d United States, Capt. T. F. Rodeubough. 
Sth United States, Capt. Julius W. Mason. 
6th United States : 

Maj. Samuel H. Starr. 

Lieut. Louis H. Carpenter. 

Lieut. Nicholas Nolan. 

Capt. Ira W. Claflin. 



152 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshutg. 



SECOND DIVISION. 

Brig. -Gen. David McM. Gregg. 

Headquarters Guard . 
1st Ohio, Compauy A, Capt. Noah Jones. 



Second Brigade. X 
Col. Pennock Huey. 

2d New York, Lieut. -Col. Otto 
Harhaus. 

4th New York, Lieut. -Col. Augus- 
tus Pruyn. 

6th Ohio (ten companies), Maj. 
William Stedman. 

Sth Pennsylvania, Capt. William A. 
Corrie. 



First Brigade. 
Col. John B. McIntosh. 

1st INIarylaud (eleven companies), 
Lieut. -Col. Jas. M. Deems. 

Purnell (Maryland) Legion, Com- 
pany A, Capt. Robert E. 
Duvall. 

1st Massachusetts,* Lieut. -Col. Gree- 
ly S. Curtis. 

1st New Jersey, Maj. M. H. Beau- 
mont. 

1st Pennsylvania, Col. John P. Tay- 
lor. 

3d Pennsylvania, Lieut. -Col. E. S. 
Jones. 

3d Pennsylvania Heavy Artillery, 
Section Battery H,t Capt. 
W. D. Rank. 

Third Brigade. 
Col. J. Irvin Gregg. 
1st Maine (ten companies), Lieut. -Col. Charles H. 
10th New York, Major M. Henry Avery. 

4th Pennsylvania, Lieut-Col. Wm. E. Doster. 
16th Pennsylvania, Lieut. -Col. John K. Robison. 



Smith. 



Brig 



THIRD DIVISION. 

-Gen. JuDSON Kilpatrick. 



Headquarters Guard. 
1st Ohio, Company C, Capt. Samuel N. Stanford. 



First Brigade. 
Brig. -Gen. Elon J. Farnsworth. 
Col. Nathaniel P. Richmond 
Sth New York, Maj. John Ham- 
mond. 
18th Pennsylvania, Lieut. -Col. Wil- 
liam P. Brinton. 
1st Vermont, Lieut. -Col. Addison 

W . Preston . 
1st West Virginia (ten companies) : 
Col. Nathaniel P. Richmond. 
Maj. Charles E. Capehart. 



Second Brigade. 
Brig. -Gen. George A. Custer. 
1st Michigan, Col. Charles H. Town. 
Sth Michigan, Col. Russell A. Alger. 
6th Michigan, Col. George Gray. 
7th Michigan (ten companies). Col. 
William D. Mann. 



HORSE ARTILLERY. 



First Brigade. 

Capt. James M. Robertson. 

9th Michigan Battery, Capt. Jabez 

J. Daniels. 
6th New York Battery, Capt. Joseph 

W. Martin. 
2d United States, Batteries B andj 

L. Lieut. Edward Heaton. j 
2d United States, Battery M, Lieut. 

A. C. M. Pennington, Jr. ' 
4th United States, Battery E, Lieut, j 

Samuel S. Elder. ! 



Second Brigade. 

Capt. John C. Tidball. 

1st United States, Batteries E and 

G, Capt. Alanson M. Randol. 

1st United States, Battery K, Capt. 

William M. Graham. 
2d United States, Battery A, Lieut. 
John H. Calef. 
United Statps, Battery C,§ Lieut. 
William D. Fuller. 



3d 



♦Served with the Sixth Ai'my Corps and on the right flank. 
tServing as light artillery. 

JAt Westminster, etc., and not engaged in the battle. 
§With Huey's Cavalry Brigade, and not engaged in battle. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



153 



ARTILLERY RESERVE. 

Brig. -Gen. Robert O. Tyler. 
Capt. James M. Robertson- 

Ilcudqunrters Guard. 
32d Massachusetts Infautry, Company C, Capt. Josiah C. Fuller. 



First Regular Brigade. 
Capt. Dunbar R. Ransom 

1st United States, Battery H: 

Lieut. Chandler P. Eakin. 

Lieut. Philip D. Mason. 
3d United States, Batteries F and 

K, Lieut. John G. TurnbuU. 
4th United States, Battery C, Lieut. 

Evan Thomas. 
5th United States, Battery C, Lieut. 

Gulian V. Weir. 

First Volunteer Brigade. 

Lieut. -Col. Freeman McGilvery. 

Massachusetts Light, 5th Battery 
(E) ,* Capt. Charles A. Phillips. 
Massachusetts Light, 9th Battery : 
Capt. John Bigelow. 
Lieut. Richard S. Milton. 
New York Light. 15th Battery, 

Capt. Patrick Hart. 
Pennsylvania Light, Batteries C and 
F, Capt. James Thompson. 



Second Volunteer Brigade. 
Capt. Elijah D. Taft. 

1st Connecticut Heavy, Battery B,t 

Capt. Albert F. Brooker 
1st Connecticut Heavy, Battery M,i 

Capt. Franklin A. Pratt. 
Connecticut Light, 2d Battery, Capt. 

John W. Sterling. 
New York Light, 5th Battery, Capt. 

Elijah D. Taft. 

Third Volunteer Brigade. 
Capt. James F. Huntington. 

New Hampshire Light, 1st Battery, 

Capt. Frederick M. Edgell 
1st Ohio Light, Battery H, Lieut. 

George W. Norton. 
1st Pennsylvania Light Batterie.^ F 

and G, Capt. R. Bruce Rick- 

etts. 
West Virginia Light, Battery C, 

Capt. Wallace Hill. 



Fourth Volunteer Brigade . 

Capt. Robert H. Fitzhugii. 

Maine Light, 6th Battery (F), Lieut. Edwin B. Dow. 

Maryland Light, Battery A, Capt. James H. Rigby. 

New' Jersey Light, 1st Battery, Lieut. Augustin N. Parsons. 

1st New York Light, Battery G, Capt. Nelson Ames. 

1st New York Light, Battery K,! Capt. Robert H. Fitzhugh. 

Train Guard. 
4th New Jersey Infantry (seven companies), Maj. Charles Ewinj 

*10th New York battery attached. 

tNot engaged. 

JEleventh New York battery attached. 



154 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



KETURN OF CASUALTIES IN THE ARMY OF THE POTOMAC, 
COMMANDED BY MAJ.-GEN. GEORGE G. MEADE, U. S. ARMY, 
AT THE BATTLE OF GETTYSBURG, PENNSYLVANIA, JULY 
1-3, 1863.* 





Killed. 


Wounded. 


Captured 
OR Missing. 




Command. 




1 




a 
1 




a' 

a 


a! 




1 . 
o 


•a 

c 

H 


01 

1 

C 


•a 
a 


e 



-a 

'a 
a 


03 
to 


GENERAL HEADQUARTERS. 
















Staff 






2 


2 






4 






FIRST AR.MY CORPS. 
















Maj.-Gen. .Tohn F. Reyxoi.ds. 
















Maj.-Gen. Ahner Dodbleday, 
















Maj.-Gen. John Newton. 
















GBNEHAL HEADQUARTERS. 
















Staff 


1 


i 


1 


2 






2 


1st Maine C.ivalr.?, Compan.v, I 


3 


FIltST DIVISION. 
















Brig. -Gen. James S. AVadswokth. 
















First Brigade 
















Brig. -Gen. Solomon Meredith. 
















Col. William W. Robinson. 
















Staff, 


2 
8 

1 
2 


""25 
59 

25 
28 
21 


1 
12 
13 
U 

7 
10 


""iai 

197 
144 

loe 
95 


4 

3 

5 

""i 


'""46 
83 
47 
22 
51 


1 

210 


24th Michigan 


363 




233 




163 




178 








13 


15S 


54 


666 


13 

= 


249 


1,153 






Second Brigade. 












Brig. -Gen. Lysandei: CuTi.En. 


















2 

3 

1 


2 

30 
13 

7 
57 
13 


""is 

6 
8 
9 
5 


5 
U6 

99 
54 
135 
55 




i 

i 


3 

70 
99 
45 
92 
54 


10 




234 


S4th New Yorl< i.llth Militia) 


217 
115 




296 


56th Pennsylvania, 


130 




6 


122 


44 


465 


2 

15 


363 
612 


1,002 






Total First Division 


19 


280 


98 


1,131 


2,155 






SECOND DIVISION. 














Brig. -Gen. .John C. Robinson. 
















Staff 






1 








1 







*Also Includes losses in skirmishes, July 4. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



155 









Captdred 






Killed. 


WouxDEn. 


OR Missing. 




Command. 




=■ 




c 




= 








~ 




3 




a 


ii 






-3 




■a 




■a 


C3 . 










i. 










































E 


■7: 


B 


a 


a 


a 


be 




— ' 


" 





a 





S 


»i; 



jFi7S< Brigade, 

Brig. -Gen. Gabriel R. Paul, 
Col. Samuel H. Leonard, 
Col. Adrian R. Root. 
Col. Richard Coulter. 
Col. Peter Lyle. 
Col. Richard Coulter. 



Staff, 
16tU 
ISth 
94 th 

104 th 
nth 

larth 



Jl.iine 

Massachusetts, 
New York, .. 
New York. .. 
Pennsylvania,* 
Pennsylvania, 



Total First Brigade, 



Second Brigade. 
Brig. -Gen. Heni.y Baxter. 



Stafif 

13th Massachusetts 

S3d New York (9th Militia), 

97th New I'ork 

11th Pennsyh ania.* 

SSth Pennsylvaiiifi, 

90th Pennsylvania, 



Total Second Brigade, 



Total Second Division, 



third division. 

Brig. -Gen. Thomas A. Rowley, 
Maj.-Gen. Abner Douhleday. 

StaEf 

First Brigade, 

Col. Chapman Biddle. 

Brig. -Gen. Thomas A. Rowley 

Col. Chapman Biddle. 

Staff 

SOth New York (?Oth Militia) 

131st Pennsylvania 

142d Pennsylvania 

151st Peunsylvania, 

Total First Brigade, 

Second Brigade. 

Col. Roy Stone. 

Col. Langhorne Wister. 

Col. Edmund L. Dana. 

143d Pennsylvania 

149th Peunsylvania 

l.^Oth Pennsylvania, 

Total Second Brigade 



3 


32 




12 


3 


10 


2 


49 


S 


103 


1 


20 


1 


.53 


2 


33 


4 


ia3 



96 
101 
117 

202 




91 
107 
73 



5 
232 
18-> 

24 "1 

194 

15 

16") 

1,041 



1 

119 
82 

12"! 

117 

110 
93 



1,690 



1 
170 
179 
211 
337 



♦Transferred on afternoon of July 1 from the Second to the First Brigade. 
after July 1 are reported with the latter brigade. 



25?, 
336 
264 

853 



Its losses 



ir,r> 



Pennsylvania at Gettysbui'g. 



Captured 
OR Missing. 



Third Brigade. 

Brig. -Gen. George J. Stannard. 
Col. Francis V. Raxdall. 

Staff 

13th Vermont, 

14tli Vermont, 

IGth Vermont, 

Total Third Briijade 

Total Third Division 



ARTILLERY BRIGADE. 

Col. Charles S. Wainwrigiit. 

Maine Light, 2d Battery (B) 

Maine Light, 5th Batter.v (E) 

1st New Yoik Light Battery L,* .. 
1st Pennsylvania Light, Battery B, 
4th United .States, Battery B 



Total Artillery Brigade 

Total First Army Corps 

SECOND ARMY CORPS. 

Maj.-Gen. Winfield S. PLixcocK. 
Brig. -Gen. John Gibhon. 

general headquarters. 



Staff 

6th New York Cavalry, Companies D 
and K 



first division. 

Brig. -Gen. .ToHN C. Caldwell. 

First Brigade, 

Col. Edward E. Cross. 
Col. II. BoxD McKeen. 



Staff 

5th New Hampshire, 

61st New York 

Slst Pennsylvania, .. 
14Sth Pennsylvania, ... 



Total First Brigade. 

Second Brigade. 
Col. Patrick Kelly. 



28th Massachusetts, 
63d New York, ... 
69th New York, ... 
SSth New York, ... 
116th Pennsylvania, 



Total Second Brigade, 



i 


26 




6 




5 


1 


18 


2 


55 



2,969 



32 

5.25 



U 
2,079 



2 
123 
10( 
119 

351 ' 

2,103 



6,069 



1 
80 
62 
62 
12> 



100 
23 

2". 



^Battery E, 1st New York Artillery attached. 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 



157 



CAI'TDKED 

OR Missing. 



Third Brigade, 

Brig. -Gen. Samuel K. Zooic 
Lieut. -Col. John Fraser. 



Staff 

52(1 New York, . 

57th New York, . 

GGtli New York, . 
140th Peiinsylv.ania. 



Total Third Brigade, . 

Fourth Brigade. 
Col. John R. BitooKB. 



27th Connecticut, . 

3d Delaware, 

64th New York , . . 
53il Pennsylvania, 
14.5th Pennsylvania, 



Total Fourth Brigade, 
Total First Division, 

SECOND DIVISION. 



Brig. -Gen. John Gibbon, 
Brig.-Geu. Wilmam Haiiuow. 



Staff, 



First Brigade. 

Brig. -Gen. Wilt.iam Harrow. 
Col. Francis E. Heath. 



Staff 

IMh Maine, 

15th Massachusetts 

1st Minnesota,* 

82d New York (2d Mil.tia), 



Total First Brigade 

Second Brigade. 
Brig. -Gen. Alexander S. Webb, 



Cltth Penns.vlvania, 
71st Pennsylvania, 
72d Pennsvhania, 
106th Pennsylvania, 



Total Second Brigade, . 

Third Brigade. 
Col. Nokman J. Hall. 



19th Massachusetts, 
L'Oth Massachusetts, 

7th Michigan, 

42d New York, .. 
59th New York, .. 



Total Third Brigade, 



1 

1 

2 

3 


1 
4 
3 
34 

42 


3 

2 
5 
8 


23 

26 
24 
136 


i 

3 


10 
2 
9 

57 


7 


18 


209 


4 


78 


2 
2 

4 

8 


8 
9 

11 
7 

11 


4 
7 
7 
11 
9 


19 
54 
57 
56 
60 

246 




4 

13 
19 

6 
10 


46 


38 


51 


18 


169 


82 


798 


6 


202 






3 








i 

3 
3 
3 

10 


""'as 

20 
47 
42 

~ 137 

36 
19 

42 
S 


1 
11 

8 
14 

12 


" "iss 

89 
159 
120 


i 


4 

28 

1 

14 


46 


527 

72 
55 
139 
45 

311 


1 

2 
3 


47 


4 

9 

2 

1 


8 
3 
7 
9 


15 
16 
2 

1 

34 

^= 

1 

7 
3 

4 


9 


105 


27 


5 


a 

2 
2 


7 
28 
19 
15 

G 


9 
8 
3 
6 
S 


52 
86 
41 
49 
28 




6 


75 


29 


253 




14 















1 

38 
31 
4t 
241 



37 
81 

98 
80 
90 

3S0 



1 
203 
14S 
224 
192 

76S 



137 
98 

192 
64 



77 
127 
G5 
74 
31 



*2d Comiiany Minnesota Sharpshooters attached. 



158 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 









Captured 






Killed. 


Wounded. 


OK Missing. 




Command. 




d 




d 




d 








a 




a 




a 


v 






73 




•a 




"O 


C3 

bo 




u 


s 


£ 


0) 


t-, 


0) 




































s 


a 


G 


a 


e 


"3 


60 




o 


H 


o 


H 


o 


» 



1st Company Massachusetts Sharpshoot- 
ers 



Total Second Division, 



THIKD DIVISION. 

Bfig.-Gen. Alexander Hays. 

First Brigade, 
Col. Samuel S. Carboll. 



14th Indiana, 

4th Ohio 

8th Ohio, 

7th West Virginia, 



Total First Brigade, 

Second Briyade. 



Col. Thomas A. Smyth. 
Lieut. -Col. Francis E. Pierce. 



14th Connecticut, 

1st Delaware, 

12th New Jersey, 

10th New York (battalion), 
lOSth New York 



Total Second Brigade, 

Third Brigade, 

Col. George L. Willabd, 
Col. Eliakim Sherrill. 
Lieut. Col. James M. Bull, 



39th New York, 

Ulth New York, 

135th New I'ork, 

126th New York, 



Total Third Brigade, 



Total Third Division, 



ARTILLERY BIUGADE. 

Capt. John G. Hazard. 

1st New York Light, Batterq B,* . 
1st Rhode Island Light, Battery A, 
1st Rhode Island Light, Battery B. 

1st United Statep, Battery I 

4th United States, Battery A 



Total Artillery Brigade, 



Total Second Army Corjjs, 



2 
319 



6 


3 


( 


1 


17 


10 


5 


1 


35 


IS 


10 


10 


9 


10 


2a 


4 


2 




13 


10 


55 


34 


14 


3 


55 


8 


24 


6 


35 


9 


128 


26 


218 


75 


9 




3 




6 




1 




5 




24 


5 


731 


270 



6 

1,097 



2,924 



•Transferred from Artillery Reserve, July 1; 14th New York Battery attached. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



159 









Captured 




Killed. 


WOU.NDEU, 


OB Missing. 






d 




0; 




c 






n 








g 






■a 




■O 






















S 


to 


o 




r 


tr 


















G 


a 


B 


c 


e 






o 


H 


o 


S 


o 


1^ 



THIRD ARMY CORPS. 

Maj.-Geii. Daniel E. Sickles. 
Maj.-Geu. Daviu B. Birney. 



Staff, 



FIRST DIVISION. 



Maj.Gen. David. B. B'rney. 
Brig. -Gen. .J. H. Hobaut Ward. 

First Brigade, 

Bilg.-Geu. Charles K. Graham. 
Col. Andrew H. Tippin. 



Staff 

57th Pennsylvania, 
63(1 Pennsylvania, 
CStli Pennsylvania, 
105th Pennsylvania, 
114th Pennsylvania, 
111st Pennsylvania, 



Total First Brigade 

Second Brigade. 

Brig. -Gen. J. H. IIoi:aut Wari 
Col. Hiram Berdan. 



Staff 

20th Indiana 

3d Maine, 

4th Maine 

SGth New York 

laith New York 

99th Pennsylvania 

1st United States Sharpsliooters, 
2d United Stales Sharpshooters, 



Total Second Brigade, 



Col. 



Third Brigade. 
P. Regis db Trobriand. 



17th Maine 

3d Micliisran, ... 

5th Mi<;-higan, . . . 
40th New York, 
110th Pennsylvania, 



Total Third Brigade, 



Total First Division, 



SECOND DIVISIO.N. 

Brig. -Gen. Andrew A. Humphreys. 
Staff 





2 










3 








9 


9 


37 


3 


55 


1 


3 


26 




4 


10 


9 


117 




13 


7 


14 


101 




9 


9 


1 


85 


3 


57 


25 


6 


97 




21 


61 


45 


463 


6 


159 




1 








30 


9 


105 




10 


17 


2 


57 




45 


9 


3 


56 


4 


TO 


10 


3 


48 


1 


3 


24 


3 


54 




5 


17 


4 


77 




11 


.S 


4 


33 




6 


5 


4 
33 


19 


1 


14 


117 


449 


6 


164 


17 


7 


105 


' . 


3 


7 


3 


28 




7 


17 


S 


78 




4 


a2 


4 


116 




7 


8 


6 


39 






71 


2S 


366 




21 


249 


106 


1,2:78 


12 


344 


2 


2 


7 

















115 
34 
15J 
132 
155 
149 



1 
156 
122 
144 
66 
90 
110 
49 
43 



135 

45 

109 

150 



2,011 



100 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 









CAPTURED 






Killed. 


Wounded. 


OR Missing. 




Command, 




n 




a 




d 








a 




a 




1 


si 






■a 




•a 




■o 


us 
50 




£ 




2 




£ 


<u 




































e 


a 


B 


a 


B 


a 


to 
SO 




o 


s 


o 


& 


o 


H 



First Brigade. 
Biig.-Geu. Joseph B. Cakk, 

Staff 

1st Massachusetts, 

11th Massachusetts 

16th Massachusetts 

12th New Hampshire, 

nth New Jersey, 

26th Pennsylvania 

Total First Brigade 



Second Brigade. 
Col. William R. Brewster. 

Staff ; 

70th New York 

71st New York 

72d New York 

73d New Y'ork 

74th New York 

120th New York 

Total Second Brigade 



Third Brigade, 

Col. George C. Burling. 

2d New Hampshire 

5th New Jersey 

6th New Jersey, 

7th New Jersey 

Sth New Jersey, 

15th Pennsylvania 



Total Third Brigade 



Total Second Division, 



artillery BlilCADE. 

Capt. George E. Randolph. 
Capt. A. JuDsoN Clark. 

New .Jersey I-ight, 2d Battery 

1st New Y'ork IJght, Battery D, .. 

New York Light, 4th Battery 

1st Rhode Island Light, Batterv E, 
4th United States, Battery K 

Total Artillery Brigade 



Total Third Army Corps, 



1 


15 


1 


22 


3 


12 


1 


19 


3 


14 


1 


29 


10 


111 




"26 


1 


9 




7 


4 


47 




12 


7 


25 


12 


120 


3 


17 


2 


11 




1 


i 


14 




'J 




3 


6 


53 


28 


2S6 




1 




2 




3 





2 




8 


50 


543 



2 




8 


75 


7 


89 


4 


49 


5 


65 


9 


U5 


10 


166 


45 


559 



119 
60 
29 
76 
31 
IS 



1,422 



2,778 



2 


a. 

8 
13 

2 
12 
7 


2 


63 




4 

13 

28 
8 
3 

17 




73 




36 
16 
8 
13 
2 
3 




78 


2 


214 




3 

8 

1 
1 
4 




17 


14 


575 







Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



161 









Captured 






Killed. 


Wounded, 


OK Missing. 




ilMAND. 




a 




a 

<D 




a 








~ 




C 




3 


















(S 
















be 
























CJ 
























be 




e 


a 


e 


7^ 


e 


•:^ 




o 


a 




K 


o 


^ 


< 



FIFTH AKMY CORPS. 
Maj.-Gen. Geoeob Sykes. 

FIRST DIVISION, 

Brig. -Gen. .Tames Barnes. 

First Brigade. 

Col. William S. Tilton, 

ISth Massachusetts, 

22(1 Massachusetts 

1st Michigan, 

USth Peiiusylvania 

Total First Brigade 

Second Brigade. 
Col. Jacob B. Sweitzer. 

9th Massachusetts, 

32il Massachusetts ... 

4th Michigan 

62d Peuusylvania, 

Total Second Brigade, 

Third Brigade. 

Col. Strong Vincent, 
Col. James C. Rice. 

Staff 

30th Maine 

16th Michigan 

44th New York, 

S3d Pennsylvania 

Total Third Brigade, 

Total First Division, .. 



second division. 
Brig. -Gen. Rombyn B. 

First Brigade. 
Col. Hannibal Day. 



Staff, 

3d United States, 
4th United States, 
6th United States, 
12th United States, 
14th United States, 



Total First Brigade, 



1 

3 

4 

2 

10 

1 

13 
24 
24 


3 

6 
3 

12 


7 

■ 9 

10 

26 


61 


""29 

20 

9 


1 
6 
2 
5 
3 


82 


17 


1.53 


5S 


fi 

10 

4 
7 
18 


4 

2 

1 
4 
2 

13 


45 







165 

175 



1 
125 

60 
111 

55 

332 

904 



1 
73 
40 
44 
92 
132 



162 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 





Killed. 


WOU.NDED. 


Captured 
OR Missing. 




Command, 


S 

o 

e 

o 


d 

a 

o 
a 


5; 

1 



d 

a 

-a 
a 


e 



d 

a 

0) 

a 


s 

1 
< 


Second Brigade. 

Col. Sidney Burbank. 

2d United States, 


1 
1 
1 

3 

1 


5 

11 
15 
16 

34 

71 


4 
3 
5 
7 
13 

33 


51 
42 
27 
85 
105 

310 




S 
2 
3 

9 

7 


67 
59 
51 
120 


7th Uniled States 


10th UnitPd States, 


11th United States 


17th United States 


150 




Total Second Bridage, 


7 


Zl 


447 






Third Brigade, 

Brig. -Gen. Stephen H. Weed. 
Col. Kenneu Gakrari). 

Staff, 


1 
1 


"25 
4 
3 
6 


5 

2 
2 
2 


""84 
22 
14 
U 

~ 131 




""is 


1 
133 


140th New Yorlc 


146th New York 


91st Pennsylvania 


19 


15!jth Pennsylvania 




19 


Total Third Brigade, 


2 


38 


11 




18 


200 






Total Senond Division, 


10 


154 


56 


746 




63 


1,020 




THIRD DIVISION. 

Brig. -Gen. Samdel W. Crawford. 
First Brigade. 
Col. William McCandless. 


2 


8 
3 

2 
5 


3 

2 
1 
8 


35 

31 
21 
31 




i 

" "2 


46 
37 
24 




6th Pennsvlvania Reserves, 


13th Pennsylvania Reserves (1st Rifles), 


48 


Total First Brigade 


2 


18 


14 


lis 




3 


155 






Third Brigade, 
Col. Joseph W. Fisher. 

5th Pennsylvania Reserves, 

9th Pennsylvania Reserves, 

10th Pennsylvania Reserves 

11th Pennsylvania Reserves, 

12th Pennsylvania Reserves, 


i 


2 

2 

1 


3 

3 

17 


2 

5 
3 
35 

1 

46 






2 
5 

5 

41 

2 


Total Third Brigade, 


1 


5 






56 








Total Third Division, 


3 


23 


164 


3 

2 


210 




6 

2 
6 
IS 






aetilleky brigade. 
Capt. Augustus P. Martin. 

1st Ohio IJght, Battery L, 

,5th United States, Battery D 

5th United States, Battery I, 


i 


6 

1 


i 




6 

2 

13 

22 






Total Artillery Brigade 


1 


7 


1 


32 




2 


43 






Ambulance Corps, 








1 






1 






Total Fifth Army Corps 


28 


337 


129 


1,482 


1 


210 


2,187 







Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



163 





Killed. 


Wounded 


COMMANi>, 




a 

01 

a 




c 

a 




S 


Vi 


Oj 


V 














e 


a 


e 


a 




o 


a 


o 


W 



Captured 




oil Missing. 






a 






01 












a 






■a 




























e 


c 




o 


H 





SIXTH ARMY COUPS. 
















Maj.-Gen. .John Sedgwick. 
















FIKST DIVISION. 
















Brig. -Gen. Hokatio G. Wright, 
















First Brigade. 
















Brig. -Gen. Ai.pi;ed T. A. Torbeut. 
















2d New .Tersey, 

vW New .Tersey, 

15th New Jersey 








6 
2 
3 




!!!!!! 


6 
2 
3 


Total First Brig.ide 








11 






11 


Second Brigade, 
















Brig. -Gen. Joseph J. Bartlett, 
















121st New York, 





i 




2 
1 
1 






2 
2 


96th Pennsylvania, 


1 


Total Second Brigade 


1 




4 






R 






Third Brigade. 
















Brig. Gen. David A. Russell. 
















119th Pennsylvania 








2 
2 






2 


Total Third Brigade, 




■■^^^ 






2 










1 


17 






18 






second division. 
















Brig. -Gen. Albion P. Howe. 
















Second Brigade. 
















Col. Lewis A. Grant. 
























1 






1 












1 






1 






Third Brigade, 
















Brig. -Gen. Thomas H. Neill. 


















i 


i 




6 

2 
2 
1 

11 




i 

i 


6 


43d New York 


5 


49th New York 


a 




2 






Total Third Brigade, 


1 


1 






2 


15 








1 


1 




12 




2 


16 























IGt 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 





Killed. 


WOU.VDED. 


Captured 

OR Ml.SSING. 




Command. 




a 

a 




n 

s 




B 

a 






o 


•a 

a 


o 
O ' 


-a 


e 

o 


•a 

a 
H 


03 

bJ) 

60 


THIRD DIVISION. 
















Maj.-C.pn. John Newton. 
















Brig. -Gen. Frank Wheaton. 
















First Brigade, 
















Brig. Gen, Alexander Shalek. 


















i 


4 

"'"io 


a 

1 


5 

'"""so 

12 
6 




i 

2 


9 


07th New York 

122d New York 


1 

44 




14 


b;2u Pennsylvania, 


6 


Total First Brigade 


1 


14 


3 


53 




3 


74 






Second Brigade. 














Col. Henkt Ij. Eustis. 
















7lh Massachusetts, 

10th Massachusetts 

?7th Massachusetts 




■■■•g 

1 


i 

1 


6 
3 

25 
5 

39 




5 

19 
1 


6 

9 

47 






Total Second Brigade, 




3 


2 




25 


69 






Third Brigade. 














Brig. -Gen. Frank WnEATON, 
















Col. David J. Nevin. 
















62d New York 




1 

i 


1 

1 
2 
3 


10 
9 
9 

16 

44 






12 


93d Pennsylvania 


10 
11 




20 






Total Third Brigade 




2 


7 






53 


Total Third Division 


1 


19 


12 


136 




28 


196 






ARTILLERY BRIGADE. 
















Col. Charles H. Tompkins. 
















New York Light, 1st Battery 




4 


2 


6 






12 


Total Artillery Brigade 




4 


2 


6 






12 


Total Sixth Army Corps, 


2 


25 


24 


171 




30 


242 


ELEVENTH AKMY CORPS. 
















Maj.-Gen. Oi.iveb 0. Howard. 
















GENERAL HEADQUARTERS. 
















Staff 

1st Indiana Cavalry, Companies 1 and 
K 






1 






3 


1 
3 


FIRST division. 
















Brig. -Gen. Francis C. Barlow. 
















Brig. -Gen. Adei.uert Ames. 
















Staff 






1 








1 



















Pennsylvania at Oettyshurg. 



165 









CaI'i'IKEI) 






Killed. 


Won.NDBD. 


oii Missing. 




Command. 




d 




a 




c 








~ 




s 




3 


o 






13 




-3 




■a 






















S 


» 


S 


to 


Cl 




















be 




e 


■^ 


B 


75 


s 


~p. 




o 


K 


o 


H 


o 


H 


■<; 



/''irsf Brigade. 
Col. Leopold von Gilsa. 



Staff, 
41st 
54th 
6Sth 

153d 



New York, . 
New York, . 
New York. . 
Pi.nnsylviini.i, 



17th 

25th 
75th 
107th 



Total First Brigade, 

Second Brigade. 

Brig. -Gen. Adei.bert .\mes. 
Col. Andrew L. Harris. 

Connecticut 

Ohio 

Ohio 

Ohio 



Total Second Brigade 

Total First Division 

.second division. 
Brig. -Gen. Adoldh von Steinweiir. 

Staff 

First Brigade, 
Col. Charles R. Coster. 

134th New York 

154th New York 

27th Pennsylvania 

73d Pennsylvania 



Total First Brigade, 



Second Brigade. 
Col. Orland Smith. 



3.3d Massachusetts 
136th New York, 

55th Ohio, 

73<l Ohio 



Total Second Brigade, . 
Total Second Division, 



third division. 
Maj.-Gen. Cael Scuurz. 

First Brigade. 
Brig. -Gen. A. Schimmelpbnnig, 
Col. George von Ambeeg. 

S2d Illinois, 

45th New York, 

157th New York 

61st Ohio, 

74th Pennsylvania 

Total First Brigade 

12 



14 


8 


50 




2 


7 


2 


45 


4 


44 


7 


4 


59 


2 


6(5 


22 


" 


135 




46 


50 


21 


289 


6 


157 


18 


4 


77 


2 


94 


8 


5 


95 


3 


72 


14 


7 


67 


4 


92 


23 


8 


103 




77 


63 


24 
46 


342 


9 


335 


113 


631 


15 


492 




1 








41 


4 


147 


2 


57 


1 


1 


20 


9 


169 


4 


3 


26 


1 


75 


7 




27 






53 


8 


220 


12 


301 


7 




38 






17 


1 


88 


i 


2 


G 


1 


30 


1 


U 


21 


3 


117 





4 


51 


5 


2rr3 


2 


17 


104 


14 


49S 


14 


318 


4 


1 


18 


4 


85 


11 


1 


34 


14 


164 


23 


8 


158 


6 


108 


4 


6 


30 


2 


10 


8 


4 


36 


2 


58 


50 


20 


276 


28 


425 









1 

75 
102 
13S 
211 



197 

im 

186 
211 

778 

1,306 



252 
200 
111 
34 



45 
109 

49 
145 



112 
224 
307 
54 
110 



IfiO 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



a 



C.M"Ti:i;ki> 
OR Miss:.\(; 



H I 



Second Brigade.. 
Col. W. Kkzyzanowski, 

5Sth New York 

imu New York 

!>2d Ohio, 

75th Pennsylvania 

26th Wisconsin, 

Total Second Brigade 

Total Third Division 

ARTILLKRX BRIGADE. 

Maj. Thomas W. Osp.orn. 

1st New York Wght, Battery I 

Ne-vv York Light. 3d Battery 

1st Ohio Light, Battery I, 

1st Ohio Light, Battery K 

4th United States Battery G, 

Total Artillery Brigade, 

Total Eleventh Army Corps, .. 

TWELFTH ARMY CORPS. 
Ma.i.-Gen. Hexet W. Slocdm. 
Brig. -Gen. Ai.pheus S. Williams. 

FIRST DIVISION. 

Brig. -Gen. ALPiiEfs S. Williams. 
Brig. -(ion. Thomas H. Ruukr. 

First Brigade. 
Col. Archibald L. McDocgall. 

5th Connecticut 

20tU Connecticut 

3d Maryland 

123d New York, 

145th New Y'ork , 

46th Pennsylvania, 



Total First Brigade, 



Second Brigade. 

Brig. -Gen. Henry H. Lockwood, 

1st Maryland, Potomac Home Brigade, 

1st Maryland, Eastern Shore, 

150th New York 



Total Second Brigade, 



Third Brigade. 
Brig. -Gen. Thomas H. Ruger. 
Col. Silas Colsgrove. 

27tli Indiana 

2d Massachusetts, 

13th New Jersey, 

107th New York 

3d Wisconsin 



Total Third Brigade, . 
Total First Division, 



6 



4 
14 

5 
11 

36 


13 

68 
71 
S4 

lis 


i 

3 
2 


352 


5 


56 


628 


33 


2 

i 

3 


8 
8 

13 
iO 

50 




120 


1,803 


62 




2 
22 
6 
9 
8 
9 


i 


4 


56 


1 


3 



3 


77 
IS 
23 


1 


118 




8 
8 
3 

i 

20 

2:7 


78 
101 

2 
7 

205 

379 






1! 
== 1 



1,448 



Pen7isylvani(i at Gettyshnr;/. 



lf)7 









Captuked 






KiLi.Kn. 


AVODNDED. 


on Missing. 




COMMAM". 




3 




c 












- 




3 




S 


<u 






■3 




•a 




'c 








J- 


























































ID 




ia 


"H 


s 


c 


S 


"^ 




o 


a 


o 


a 


o 


^ 


< 



SECOND DIVISION. 

Brig. -Gen. John W. Ge.^ry. 

First Brigade. 
Col. Chari.es Ca.ndy. 

5th Ohio, 

7th Ohio 

29th Ohio, 

66th Ohio, 

28th Pennsylvania 

147th Pennsylvania 

Total First Brigade, 

Second Brigade, 
Col. Gkorge a. Cobham, Ju. 
Brig. Gen. Thomas L. Kane. 
Col. George A. Cobham, Jr. 

29th Pennsylvania, 

109th Pennsylvania, 

111th Pennsylvania 

Total Second Brigade, 

Third Brigade. 
Brig. -Gen. George S. Greene, 

60th New York, 

78th New Yorlv, 

102d New York, 

137th New York 

149th New York 

Total Third Brigade 

Total Second Division 

ARTILLERY BRIGADE. 

Lieut. Edward D. Mdhlenberg, 

Pennsylvania Light, Battery E 

4th United States, Battery F, 

5th United States, Battery K, 

Total Artillery Brigade, 

Total Twelfth Army Corps, 

CAV.VLKY CORPS 
Maj.Gen. Alfred Pleasonton. 

FIRST division. 

Brig.-Gen. John Buford. 

First Brigade, 
Col. William Gamble. 

8th Illinois 

12th Illinois (four comrauies), , 

3d Indl.Tna (sis companies) 

Sth New York 

Total First Brigade, 



1 


1 
1 


1 


15 
17 






2 


5 


Z 


ol 

14 








3 


1 


22 




2 


i 


4 




15 







4 


14 


5 


114 




2 


2 


13 




43 




8 




3 




6 




1 







1 


16 






2 

1 


21 


1 


65 




9 




U 


2 


39 








6 


1 


20 


1 


2 


2 


9 


1 


16 




8 


4 


36 


3 


84 




10 




6 


3 


43 




3 


6 
12 


61 
06 


10 
16 


202 
381 


1 

1 


23 


34 








3 












1 

























9 






18 


186 


43 


769 


2 


64 




1 


1 


4 




1 




4 


3 


7 




6 


1 


5 


1 


20 




5 




2 


1 


21 




16 


1 


12 


6 


52 




28 



18 
18 
38 
17 

28 
20 

139 



29 
137 
55 



1,0S2 



168 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshnrg. 





Killed. 


Wour< 


ded. 


Captured 
OR Missing. 




Command. 


0) 

o 

e 

o 


c 


o 


E 
■a 

a 


o 


c 
-a 


' 05 
bo 

a> 

W 

< 


Second Brigade. 
Col. Thomas C. Devin. 




2 




1 
2 




8 

7 
4 
4 




9th New York, , 




ITtli Pennsylvania 

3d West Virginia (two companies), . 


4 
4 






2 




3 




23 


28 






Reserve Brigade. 

Brig. -Gen. Wesley Merritt, 

6tli Pennsylvania 

1st United States 


•••••• 


3 

1 
3 

6 


i 

5 


7 
9 
6 
4 
23 


i 

5 


2 
5 
6 
1 
203 


13 

15 


2d United States, 


17 


5th United States, 


5 


6th United States, * 


242 






Total Reserve Brigade 




13 


6 


49 


6 


217 


291 


Total First Division 


1 


27 


12 


104 


6 


268 


418 






SECOND DIVISION. 

Brig. -Gen. David McM, Gregg. 

First Brigade. 
Col. John B. McIntosh. 






2 

5 


2 

7 

" "io 




1 

2 

6 


3 
9 






1st Pennsylvania, 


2 
21 






Total First Brigade, 






7 


19 




9 


35 






Third Brigade. 
Col. J. Irvin Gregg. 




1 
2 
1 
2 




4 
4 

4 


i 


2 

2 
11 


5 


10th New Yorli 


9 




1 










Total Third Brigade 




6 




12 


1 


21 






Total Second Division, 




6 


7 


31 


1 


56 






THIRD DIVISION. 

Brig. -Gen. Judson Kilpatrick. 

First Brigade. 
Brig. -Gen. Elon J. Farnsworth. 
Col. Nathaniel P. Richmond. 
Staff 


1 

2 


i 

2 
13 

2 


3 

3 


i 

4 
22 

1 


i 


4 

8 
27 
3 


1 
6 

14 
65 
12 


5th New York, 




1st Vermont, 


1st West Virginia 






Total First Brigade 


3 


IS 


6 


28 


1 


42 


96 




i 














■"* 



•Losses occurred at Fairfield, Pa. 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshurc/. 



169 



Command. 



Second Briaade, 

Brig. -Gen. Geohge A. Ccstl-r. 

1st Michigan, 

5tli Micliigsiu, 

etli Micliigan 

7tU Miciiigan 

Total Second Brigade, 

Total Tiiird Division, 

HORSE ARTILLERY. 

First Brigade, 
Capt. James M. Robektson. 

9tli Micli.'gan, 

6th New York 

2d United States, Battery M, 

4th United States, Battery E 

Total First Brigade, 

Second Brigade. 
Capt. John C. Tidball. 

1st United States, Battery K 

3d United States, Battery A, 

Total Second Brigade 

Total Cavalry Corps 

ARTILLERY RESERVE 

Brig. -Gen. Robert 0. Tyler. 
Capt. James M. Robertson. 

First Regular Brigade. 

Capt. Dunbar R. Ransom. 

1st United States, Battery H 

3d United States, Batteries F and K, . 

4th United States, Battery C 

5th United States, Battery C 

Total First Regular Brigade, 

First Volunteer Brigade. 

Lieut.-Col. Freeman McGilvery. 

Massachusetts Light, 5th Battery (E), 
Massachusetts Light, 9th Battery. ••• 

New I'ork Light, loth Battery 

Pennsylvania Light, Batteries C and F 

Total First Volunteer Brigade, . . . 





10 


1 


7 




1 




13 


1 


31 


4 


49 




1 




i 




, 




"* 




2 




2 


5 


S6 




1 


1 


8 




1 




2 


1 


12 




4 


1 


7 




3 




2 


1 


16 





== 



6 


37 


1 


29 


2 


24 


4 


44 


13 


134 


19 


163 




4 




1 


1 




1 


5 




1 




12 




13 


39 


315 


1 


7 




14 


1 


16 


2 


13 


4 


49 


1 


16 


2 


16 


2 


11 




IS 


10 


61 








Captured 
or Missing. 



20 


73 


IS 


56 


1 


28 


39 


100 


78 


257 


120 


355 








1 




1 




1 




8 




3 




12 




15 


399 


852 


1 


10 


1 


24 




18 




16 


2 


68 




21 


2 


28 




16 


3 


28 


5 


93 







•10th New York Battery attached, whose loss, here included, was 2 men killed and 3 
wounded. 



170 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 







Captured 




Killed. 


Wounded. 


OH MlS«IXO. 






d 




H 




d 






o 








o 






a 




a 




a 


aj 




■o 




•a 




■a 




S 


o 


lis 


a; 


s2 


o 


^ 


.J5 


(^ 


-^ 


o 


.— 


e 


a 


e 


c 


e 


a 


M 

< 


o 


a 


o 


K 


c 


• H 



,^f,cond Volinitecr lirigade. 
















Capt. Eli.iah D. Tapt. 





















i 




3 

2 

5 





2 


5 


New Yoi-k Liglit &th Battery, 


3 






Total Seeona Volunteer Brigade, .. 




^ 






2 


8 


Third Volunteer Brigade. 
















Capt. .Tames F. Huntington. 
















New Hampshire I-iiriit, 1st Battery, ... 

1st Ohio Light, Battery H, 

1st Peunsylvania Light, Batteries F 
and G 




2 

6 

10 


] 

1 


3 

5 

13 
2 

23 





3 


3 

7 

23 


West Virginia Light, Battery C 


4 


Total Third Volunteer Brigade 




3 


37 


Fourth Volunteer Brigade. 
















Capt. ROBEET H. FiTZHUGH, 
















Maine Light, 6th Battery (F), 




2 




13 
7 

7 
7 

34 

173 






13 
9 


1st New York Light. Battery G 

1st New York Light, Battery K,* 


7 
7 


Total Fourth Volunteer Brigade, .. 




2 


15 






36 




2 


41 




12 


242 







RECAPITULATION. 



General Headquarters 

First Army Corps, 

Second Army Corps 

Third Army Corps 

Fifth Army Corps, 

Sixth Aruiy Corps 

Eleventh Army Corps, 

Twelfth Army Corps, 

Cavalry Corps, 

Artillery Reserve 

Total Ariijy of tlio Potomac 



*llth New York Battery attached. 







2 


2 




; 


42 


624 


262 


2,969 


83 


2,079 


G6 


-731 


2;70 


2,924 


13 


365 


50 


543 


251 


2,778 


14 


575 


2S 


337 


129 


1,483 


1 


210 


■ 2 


25 


14 


171 




30 


33 


336 


120 


1,S02 


62 


1,448 


IS 


1S6 


43 


769 


2 


64 


5 


S6 


39 


315 


8 


399 


3 


41 


15 


172 




12 


246 


2,909 


1,145 


13,384 


1S3 


5,182 



Pennsylvania at Gcttyshiirf/. 



171 



GENERAL SUMMARY OF CASUALTIES IN THE UNION FORCES 
DURING THE GETTYSBURG CAMPAIGN, JUNE 3-AUGUST 1, 
1863. 









CArXUUED 






KiLLKD. 


Wounded. 


OK MlSSIXO. 




Location. 




„• 




S3 
a 












a 




a 




s 


o 














■o 


n 




















































e 


~ 


iS 


~ 


a 




til 

CI) 




o 


H 


O 


^ 


o 


s 


< 



Run, 



Va. 



Near Fayctteville, Va., Juiii 

Franklin's Crossing or Deeij 
June 5-13, 

Brandy Station (Fleetwood) and Bever- 
ly Ford, Va., June 9 

Stevensbui'g, Va., June 9, 

Berry ville, Va., June 13 

Opequon Creelj, Va., June 13, 

Blinker Hill, W. Va., June 13 

Winchester, Va., June 13-15, 

Berryville, Va.. June 14, 

Martinsburg, W. Va., June 14, 

Williamsport, Md., June l.n, 

Aldie, Va., June IV 

Catoctin Creek and Point of Rocks, Md., 
June 17 

Middleburg, Va., June IT-lt!, 

M;ddleburg, Va., June 19 

UppervlUe, Va., June 21, 

Near Gainesville, Va., June 21 

Thoroughfare Gap and Hay Market, 
Va., June 21-:5 

Near Aldie, Va., June 32, 

Greencastle, Pa., June 22 

McConnellsburg, Pa., June 25, 

Near Gettysburg, June 26 

Near Fairfax Court House, Va., June 27, 

Near Rock ville, Md., June 2S, 

Wrightsville, Pa., June 2S 

Muddy Branch, Md., June 29 

Westminster, Md., June 29, 

Hanover, Pa., June 39 

Sporting Hill, near Harrisburg, Pa., 
June 30 

Carlisle, Pa., July 1, 

Gettysburg, Pa., July 1-4, 

Fairfield Gap, Pa., July 4 

Monterey Gap, Pa., July 4, 

Emmitsburg, Md., July 4 

Cunningham's Cross Roads 

Near Greencastle. Pa., July 5, 

Near Fairfield, Pa., July .5 

Smithburg, Md., July 5 

Hagerstowu, Md., July 6, 

Williamsport, Md., July 6 

Downsville, Md., July 7 

Funkstown, Md.. July 8, 

Boonsborough, Md., July 8, 

Near Williamsport, Md., July S, 

Benevola or Beaver Creek, Md., July 9, 

Funkstown, Md., July 10-J3 

Hagerstowu, Md., July 10-13 

Jones' Cross Roads, Md., July 10-13, .. 

Ashby's Gap, Va., July 12 

Near Williamsport, Md., July 14, 

Falling Waters, Md., July 14 

Near Harper's Ferry, W. Va., July 14, 

Halltown, W. Va., July V, 

.Shepherdstown, W. Va., July 1.5, 



Pa., July 5, 



2,909 
1 
1 



1,145 
2 
3 



45 I ....... 

336 I 13 

12 

2| 

15! 

33 ' 1 

336 : 141 

1 I 

5 6 

'i22 I 6 

3 

24 12 

42 I 

117 I 1 

6 I ... 

2i .... 



7 

12 

13,384 

4 



54 
3,856 

2 
140 

9 
111 

26 
225 
37 
66 
9 

41 
2 





10 




176 


3 


52 




16 




11 


3 


36 


5 


lis 


"is3 


'5^182 




13 


1 


29 


1 


67 




1 




18 




■ 4 


10 


184 


3 


66 




50 




18 




5 


1 


5 


1 


12 




2 


2 


7 




5 


2 


30 


1 


24 




2 



f37 

29 

4 

17 

97 

4,443 

3 

153 

3 

305 

30 

2(70 

99 

209 

9 



1 
10 
176 
73 
19 
23 
7 

49 
215 

9 
12 
23,049 
21 
43 
68 

3 
19 

7 

10 

. 2f3 

120 

2 
&■> 
80 

4 
25 
97 
49 
11 
17 

7 
121 
25 

5 

1 



172 Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 

GENERAL SUMMARY OF CASUALTIES— Continukd. 









Captured 






KiLI.El), 


Wounded. 


or Missing. 




Location. 




d 




g 




g 








a 




a 




a 


<u 






■3 




■3 




■3 


■^ 
















bo 


















































a 


a 


B 


a 


e 


a 


bD 




o 


m 


o 


H 


o 


H 


< 



Sliepherdstown, W. Va., July 16, 

Snicker's Gap, Va., July 17, 

Hedgesville and Martinsburg, W. Va., 

July l.S-19, 

Ashby's Gap, Va., July 20, 

Berry's Ferry, Va., July 20, 

Manassas Gap, Va., July 21-22 

Chester Gap, Va., July 21-22 

Wapping Heights, Manassas Gap, Va., 

July 23, 

Near Gaines' Cross Roads, Va., July 23, 

Near Snicker's Gap, Va., July '^3 

Battle Mountain, near Newby's Cross 

Hoad.s, Va., July 24, 

Brandy Station, Va., August 1, ... 
Miscellaneous affairs, en route 

Total 





S 


8 


64 
3 




24 

1 




1 

9 

1 




4 
3 
3 

12 
8 




3 

3 

8 
16 


3 


17 


2 


81 
1 
1 




B 

3 




4 

21 
2 


1 
10 


11 
94 
6 


8 


14 
20 
226 , 


287 


3,355 


1,294 


15,282 


407 


11,418 



104 
4 

5 
6 
6 
29 

25 

103 
6 



39 
145 
242 

33,043 



STRENGTH AND LOSSES OF PENNSYLVANIA TROOPS 

GETTYSBURG. 



AT 











Captured 








Dead. 


Wounded. 


and Missino 




Organization. 


c 




































o 






a 




a 






a; 


G 


o 


(B 




B 


<i) 








o 


IS. 


o 


g 


o 


S 


H 



Iiifaiitri 

Eleventh 

Tweiily-tliird, 

Twenty-sixth, 

Twciitv-scvcutli, .. 
Tweiity-ciglitli, .... 

Twenty-ninth, 

Thirtieth, 

Thirty-first 

Thirtv-fourth, 

Thirty -fifth 

Thirty-eighth, 

Thirty-ninth, 

Fortieth 

I'orty-first, 

Forty-second, 

Forty -sixth, 

Forty-ninth, 

Fifty-third, 

Fifty-sixth, 

Fifty-seventh 

Sixty -first, 

Sixty-second, 

Sixty-third, 

Sixty-eight, 



292 




10 




62 




60 


E3S 


1 




1 


13 






365 


1 


29 


10 


168 




7 


324 


2 


7 


3 


23 


1 


75 


30S 




6 


1 


19 




2 


485 


2 


13 




43 




8 


444 




13 


3 


30 






273 




9 


3 


25 




i 


334 








2 






3S0 




3 


1 


20 






377 








5 






420 




2 




3 






392 


1 


4 


3 


33 






320 




1 




1 






349 


2 


9 


8 


27 




2 


262 




2 


1 


9 




1 


318 














135 




,7 


ii 


56 




6 


252 


1 


16 


5 


58 


1 


54 


207 


2 


12 


9 


34 


3 


55 


400 








1 




1 


426 


4 


24 


10 


97 




40 


296 




1 


3 


26 




4 


3S3 


3 


10 


9 


117 




13 



132 
14 
213 
111 
28 
66 
46 
37 

2 
24 

5 

5 
41 

2 
4S 
13 



130 
115 
2 
175 
34 
152 



Pennsylvania at Gcttyshurg. 



173 



STRENGTH AND LOSSES OF PENNSYLVANIA TROOPS AT 
GETTYSBURG— Continued. 











Captured 








Tead. 


WOONDKI). 


01! Missing. 




I!f)(;imionts. 


















. 


M 




M 






























0) 


O 


c 


O 


d 






"3 








S 


a 

o 


^ 


o 


<^ 


c 



Sixty -ninth, 

Seventy-first 

Seventy -seconil, 

Seventy-third, 

Seventy-fourth, 

Sovonty-fifth, 

i;i-litv-fjrst 

ICiijIitv-second 

Eighty-third 

Eiulity-fourth 

Eishty-elghth, 

Ninetieth 

Ninety-first 

Ninety-third, 

Ninety-fifth 

Nincty-sixtli, 

Ninety-eighth, 

Ninety-ninth, 

One Hiimlred find Snpond, 

On.- IInn(lr<>d ,ind Fifth 

One Ilnndird nnd Sixth 

On(^ lliindiod and Se-\enth, 

One HiindTcd and Xintii, 

One Iliiniii.a and Tentli, 

One Hundred and Eleventh 

One Hundred and Eonrteneth, . 
One Hundred and Fifteenth, 
One Hundred and Sixteenth, ... 
One Hundred and E'sliteenth, 
One Hundred and Nineteenth. . 
One Hundred and T\\ enty-flrst, 
One Hundred and I'liirty-ninth, 

One Hundred ami Fnrtieth, 

One Hnedred and Foity-first, 
One Hundred and Forty-second, 
One Hnndrfd and Fortv-third, . 
One Hundred and Foity-fifth, . 
One Hundred and Forty-seventh, 
One Hundred and Forty-eighth, 
One Hundred and Fortv-ninth, 

One Hundred and Fiftieth 

One Hundred and Fiftv-first, .. 
One Hundred and Fiflv-third, . 
One Hundred and Fifty fifth, .. 
Twenty-sixth Emerpeney, 

Cavalry, 

First 

Second , 

Third 

Fourth, 

S'-xth 

Eighth 

Sixteenth, 

Seventeenth, 

Eighteenth, 

Artillerv. 
B, First 

F, First, 

G, First, 

0, Tnd"|)endent, 

E, Independent, 

F, Independent, 

H, Third 



328 




i 44 


7 


64 


2 


15 


331 




2 23 


3 


01 


3 


16 


458 




2 60 


7 


133 




2 


332 




7 




27 






381 




2l 8 


4 


36 


2 


'- 58 


3:)S 




1 16 


5 


84 




3 


190 




6 


5 


40 




8 


i 320 








6 




30S 




I 9 


3 


42 






240 














296 




7 


3 


49 


4 


47 


208 




10 


3 


40 


1 


39 


258 
270 
356 
So6 




4 
1 

1 


2 

1 


13 
8 

1 
1 












406 
339 




1 
24 


2 
4 


8 
70 




' '{{ 




as6 

274 




I ""n 


"is 




95 




9 




335 




I 10 


8 


43 




1 


255 
149 
152 
258 
312 




16 
3 

16 
5 

13 


8 

6 

1 
1 


43 
6 
31 
16 
81 


6 
3 


93 

1 

""57 










183 




3 




18 




3 


66 




3 




10 


1 


8 


332 


] 


2 


3 


16 




3 


466 








s 






306 




20 


5 


93 


1 


60 


511 




3 




14 






590 




50 


8 


120 


3 


57 i 


20O 




41 


5 


81 




21 


362 




27 


10 


lOiO 


2 


68 


465 




\ 34 


10 


116 




91 


32S 




21 


6 


50 




10 1 


2.QS 




5 




14 






46S 




r^5 


5 


88 




5 


450 




f;o 


14 


145 


4 


107 


3E7 




! 50 


9 


125 


4 


73 


467 




» 79 


9 


172 


4 


71 


569 




40 


7 


117 




46 


431 
743 

418 




6 




11 




2 




















1 


39-1 






1 


5 


9 




6 


304 






1 










466 






3 




7 




2 


391 
















4U 






9 




4 






448 














4 


599 






2 




4 




8 


114 
144 

*105 
139 




3 

7 

1 


1 

] 

3 


12 

7 
3 




3 

3 












3 


1 


9 






.52 












i 







137 

98 
197 

34 
UO 
111 

62 
6 

55 

iio 

94 
19 
10 
2 
1 

11 
110 

133 
64 

16S 

10 

53 

23 

155 

24 

32 

25 

2 

179 

20 

241 

149 

2U 

253 

90 

20 

135 

336 

264 

397 

211 

19 

176 



♦Effective force of Battery F included. 



174 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



COMPARATIVE STATEMENT OF THE UNION LOSSES AT 
GETTYSBURG BY STATES, ETC. 



Connoctiput, — 

Delaware 

Illluois 

Indiana, 

Maine 

Maryland 

Massachusetts, .. 

Michigan 

Minnesota, 

New Hampshire, 
New Jersey, . . . 

New Yorlj, 

Pennsylvania, ... 

Ohio 

Rhode Island, ... 

Vermont, 

West Virginia, . 

Wisconsin, 

Staff 

Ambulance Corps 
U. S. Regulars, 
U. S. Volunteeis, 



KlI-LED. 


Wounded. 


OB Missing. 








a 








o 




o 




C- 




c 




c 




s 




.^ 




r^ 




1— • 


























o 


•fi 




■fl 




M 


E 


a 


e 


H 


£ 


^ 


o 


H 


o 


H 


'- 


H 



Total, 



41 


18 


165 


2 


18 


17 


98 


1 


9 


5 


29 


4 


91 


33 


351 


4 


112 


36 


570 


15 


25 


4 


103 




1S2 


79 


939 


8 


183 


57 


596 


4 


47 


14 


159 




62 


27 


236 




72 


43 


448 




902 


294 


3,713 


69 


G92 


393 


3,469 


45 


12H 


GO 


709 


12 


13 


4 


74 




57 


13 


285 




9 


4 


43 


1 


100 


40 


473 


8 


2 


34 


11 

1 


3 


159 


62 


860 


6 


10 


8 


52 


1 


. 2,909 


1,115 


13.3S4 


183 



110 
24 
92 
68 
287 
4 
311 
254 
1 

38 

63 

1,692 

1,339 

351 

5 

59 

8 

180 

1 



275 
20 



340 

161 

139 

552 

1,027 

140 

1,537 

1,111 

223 

368 

634 

6.746 

5,891 

1,271 

97 

415 

67 

806 

56 

1 

1,374 

92 



5,182 23,049 



CEREMONIES AT THE DEDICATION 



REGIMENTAL MONUMENTS 



(175) 






( 176 1 



DEDICATION OP MONUMENT 

11™ REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

September 3, 1890 
ADDRESS OF CAPTAIN HENRY B. PIPER 



M 



Y Comrades: — To have taken part on the side of the Union in the 
late civil war is of much importance, and to have participated as a 
member of that grand old regiment, the Eleventh Pennsylvania Vol- 
unteers, may be counted an honorable distinction. The part it played 
in the most sanguinai'y national tragedy of the century, was both important 
and conspicuous. Entering the services at the beginning, and continuing to 
the end, participating in the first and last battles of the war, its very name 
became the synonym of patriotism and bravery. 

Early in April, 1861, the old Eleventh was organized as a three months' 
regiment under the first call for troops by the President, and saw some 
practical campaigning during that period, participating in the batt'e of 
Falling Waters, Va., which was the first infantry fight of the war. 

It was the first Pennsylvania regiment to reorganize for three years' ser- 
vice. On July 15th, 1861, by official order of the Secretary of War, its ser- 
vices as a regimental organization were formally accepted, and it again 
entered on a career as one of the most faithful of all faithful military or- 
ganizations placed in the field by our native State in those dark and bloody 
days . 

Passing over all its subsequent campaigns preceding the summer of 1863, 
the old Eleventh, then a part of Baxter's Brigade, Second Division, First 
Army Corps, left Falmouth, Va., on the 12th of June, reached the state 
line, by way of Warren ton Junction, Herndon and Guilford Stations, 
Barnesville and Emmitsburg, camping at Wolford's farm on the evening of 
June 30th, reaching the vicinity of Gettysburg at 11 o'clock in the fore- 
noon of the next day, and were saluted by a sound of cannonading in the 
direction of Chambersburg. For the first time a northern army seeking 
a hostile foe stood inside of the boundaries of our grand old Commonwealth, 
and the harvest-gilded valleys of the Keystone state were reverberating 
the deep-throated echoes of a foeman's cannon. 

The sons of hardy New England, of the Empire state and the west, were 
thrilled with intense and consuming interest of the hour, as much so as if 
the contest about to be waged was on the threshold of their own homes. 
But the old Eleventh, the heroes of a score of bloody conflicts, breathed 
their native air, trod their native vales, stretched their line of living valor 
along the crests of their native hills and battled for the homes of thedr 
childhood. Never did men more eagerly seek the field of carnage. 



'Organized at Harrisburg and We.stnioreland Co., December 11, 1S61, to serve three 
years. On the expiration of its term of service tlie original members (except veterans) 
were mustered out and the organization composed of veterans and recruits retained in 
service until July 1, 186S, when it was mustered out. 



(177) 



178 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

The summer sun poured down its tropic heat. The distant ridges were 
filled with a brave and desperate foe, and whether Virginia or Pennsylvania 
was to be the seat of war was an open question to be decided by the bloody 
arbitrament of arms. 

Never had two great armies been so matched. It was a field which, like 
Marathon and Hastings and Waterloo, bound up in its issues the destinies 
of a thousand years of national life. Like IMarmont's race with the Enslish 
across the Spanish peninsula, the two opposing hosts had bent every collec- 
tive energy to the task of reaching an advantageous position for a northern 
campaign. But across the path of the rebel chieftain, Meade had swung 
his magnificent army. Lee, careful, sleepless, tireless in his patient vigi- 
lance, mustering the pride of the Confderate hosts under his banner, strove 
to transplant from the bleeding bosom of his native state to the hills and 
valleys of Pennsylvania, the eating canker of civil war. Every man com- 
prehended with more or less clearness the importance of the hour, and 
the veterans of our own gallant regiment fought only as brave and deter- 
mined men can fight in defense of their homes and their country. 

As they neared the position to which they were subsequently to be as- 
signed, crossing the field and the meadow, they heard for the first time of 
the death of the gallant Reynolds. Having gone forward in advance of 
the troops to select position for the impending conflict, he was killed by a 
rebel bullet before the fight began. No braver, truer man ever fell in the 
line of duty on the brink of a great battle. Had it been his to lead the 
brave men, whom he had so often led, in that bloody fray that followed, 
those who knew him best knew full well how to the laurels already gathered 
he would have added imperishable fame. By noon the regiment had taken 
its position on Seminary Ridge, south of the railroad cut. Scarcely had it 
halted in this position when General Baxter received an order from Geiieral 
Robinson to send forward two regiments to check the enemy who was ad- 
vancing on the north side of the railroad cut. The Eleventh Pennsylvania 
and the Ninety-seventh New York, Colonel Coulter in command, were 
selected for that purpose. Crossing the railroad and moving forward and 
to the right about a quarter of a mile, they met the advancing foe, held 
him in check, and prevented him from occupying the position he was so 
eager to obtain. 

It was at this point that the old Eleventh Pennsylvania and the Ninety- 
seventh New York charged and captured part of a brigade of North Caro- 
linians. But the work so well done on this part of the field, and which 
was so essential to the final success of the Union arms in this great con- 
test, was not accomplished without sacrifice. A list of the casualties will 
give some idea of the fierceness of the conflict. 

About 3 o'clock your speaker was wounded and retired to the hospital 
in the town of Gettysburg. Soon after this our troops fell back to Cemetery 
Hill, south of the town, where they participated, with the main body of the 
army, in the contest of the second and third days. Those of you who were 
present and took part in the first day's conflict will pardon me when I 
mention the personal bravery of that grand old man. Colonel Wheelock, of 
the Ninety-seventh New York. He was taken prisoner on the afternoon 



Pennsi/Ivania at Gettyshiirg. 179 

of tlie tii-st day. but made Ms escape a few daj's later. Surviving tlie perils 
of the battlefield, he has since joined the innumerable hosts who have 
pitched their tents upon the eternal plains on the other side. 

While occupying a hotly-contested position on Cemetery Hill, Colonel 
Coulter was ordered to the command of the First Brigade. Not wishing to 
be separated from his regiment, he secured its transfer also, and during 
the remaining part of the battle, the old Eleventh was temporarily a part 
of the First Brigade. 

The shifting, changes of battle found our regiment near the Emmit&burg 
road supporting the Union batteries in the evening. About noon the next 
day, July 2d, it was i-elieved by the division of General Hays and fell back 
to replenish its exhausted cartridge boxes. In the evening the brigade was 
thrown farther to the left and suffered heavily from the enemy's guns. 

About 10 o'clock at night it was engaged, in conjunction with a part of 
the Eleventh Corps, in front of Cemetery Ridge, and was only relieved at 
day-break on the morning of the 3d. In the afternoon the regiment gal- 
lantly supported the celebrated battery of Captain Ricketts on Cemetery 
HiU. Here Colonel Coulter was severely wounded, but remained in com- 
mand. Though decimated and fatigued by the constant vigil of a three 
days' engagement, the old Eleventh, in support of the Second Corps, par- 
ticipated in the desparate struggle in which the Confederate chieftain was 
finally overthrown in his last despairing effort to win the ensanguined 
field. Immediately after the failure of Pickett, in his last tremendous 
charge, Lee began to withdraw his forces and the field of Gettysburg was 
won. 

Years have elapsed since these hills reverberated to the thunder of the 
enemy's cannon. The soil, once red with patriot blood, grows rank with 
tangled grasses, or is starred with summer flowers. The eternal hills, lift- 
ing themselves toward the heavens, silent as though the spirit of solitude 
sat enthroned upon their changeless summits, give no sign of the red cur- 
rent of battle that, twenty-seven years ago, rolled around their rocky bases. 
But the level of the western sun touches with softened ray the grimite 
slabs and monumental shafts that mark the final resting places of the 
ashes into which has mouldered the brave hot hearts who fought, who fell, 
who died that the Union might be preserved. They were willing to wash 
out the footprints of the rebel foe with their blood, and count it a joy to die. 

But, ah! Not here alone lie our fallen comrades of the old Eleventh. 
Along the bloody trail of war, at Bull Run, whose dual disaster twice made 
the nation tremble, on Antietam's historic field, on Fredericksburg's luckless 
plains, in the Wilderness, at Petersburg, on Virginia's hills and plains, 
wherever raged the deadly fight — there may be found the graves of our 
brave and honored dead. It would be a grateful task to recall the in- 
stances of personal heroism and bravery in which the history of the regi- 
ment abounds, but time would fail to speak of it all, and it would seem in- 
vidious to speak of some. I may be, I know I shall be, pardoned if I tarry 
here, in passing, to say, that while the records of this Commonwealth 
endure, Pennsylvania will do well to honor the name of General Richard 
Coulter. Wounded again and again, with indomitable courage and en- 
durance, he led the old Eleventh gallantly in all its famous fights. Cool, 



180 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

brave, even-nerved, well-balaucecl, self-poised, he possessed the highest in- 
stincts of a true soldier, united with the manliest attributes of a true man. 
Long may he live to meet and mingle with the survivors of that gallant 
band he so often led to victory and never deserted in defeat. 

But I cannot if I would, I would not if I could, forget the uncrowned 
and unsung hero of the knapsack and the musket. History furnishes no 
parallel to the gallantry of our citizen soldiery, the courage and grit of the 
American volunteer. The perils and hardships of war were his. His were 
the lonely vigils of the picket beat, and the dangers by flood and 5eld. 
Upon his brave heart and conscience lay the political destiny of this great 
republic. The nation placed her life in his hands. And on a hundred 
bloody battlefields he proved himself sublimely worthy of the trust. Among 
this unselfish host of brave, true men, none were more brave and true than 
the soldiers of the old Eleventh. Their bones lie on every great battle- 
field of the east, and the records of southern prisons show the names of 
some of our gallant boys, not permitted to share a soldier's death on the 
field of battle, but dying like some ancient martyr in love with his God 
and his country. To him, to the common soldier, to our dead comrades, 
whether here beneath his native soil he sleeps, or under the softer .«kies 
of the sunny south-land, we turn in grateful, tearful remembrance. We 
rear these monuments to their honor and in their memory. But in the 
unborn ages yet to come, long after we too shall have passed away, a saved 
and grateful republic will rear in history and everlasting memorial to their 
devotion and their valor, more changeless than brass and more enduring 
than marble, and that shall exist as long as these voiceless hills bear testi- 
mony to Gettysburg's fateful day ; and among the immortal names pre- 
served as those the nation delights to honor in all the future, a high and 
honored place shall be forever held by the old "Eleventh Pennsylvania Vol- 
unteers." 

And now, to the memory of our fallen companion of the old "Eleventh 
Pennsylvania Volunteers," the heroic dead who lost their lives in the ser- 
vice of their country, and to the regiment in whose ranks they fell, this 
monument is solemnly dedicated by their surviving comrades. May its 
silent presence teach more eloquently than language can express, the lessons 
of patriotism and self-sacrificing devotion to country. 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

231^ REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

Septembei{ 12, 1889 
ADDRESS OF COLONEL JOHN F. GLENN 

COMRADES: — We assemble here to-day to unveil a statue that sur- 
mounts our monument, that we had the honor to dedicate some two 
years ago, and it is with feelings of gratification that I extend con- 
gratulations to the Twenty-third Pennsylvania Volunteers and comrades 

*Organizecl at Pliiladelphia, August 31, 1S61, to serve three years. The origiual 
members (except veterans) were mustered out September S, 1S64, and the veterans and 
recruits transferred to the S2ud Venna. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 181 

of Shaler's Brigade, for such a large attendance of their survivors on this 
hallowed ground — and in their name I most heartily thank our friends who 
have honored the occasion bj' their presence. To the State of Pennsyl- 
vania we extend our grateful thanks for the gift which I now unveil, that 
of a Birney Zouave — and in saying this I assure the Commonwealth of 
Pennsylvania of the gratitude of all the survivors of the Twenty-third 
Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry. 



M 



ADDRESS OF PRIVATE WILLIAM J. WRAY. 

R. Secretary and Members of the Gettysburg Battlefield Memorial 
Association: — On August 6, 1886, the Survivors' Association of the 
Twenty-third Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, and their friends, 
had the honor to dedicate and turn over to the keeping of your Asso- 
ciation this tablet, that marks the position of the Twenty-third during the 
action of July 3, 1863. On that occasion. General Alexander Shaler, as 
orator of the day, after reviewing the action of Gettysburg, and history of 
the regiment, in most eloquent words, generously paid tribute to the com- 
mand as its brigade commander. 

Since that time the State of Pennsylvania has appropriated for the erec- 
tion of monuments the sum of $1,500 to each Pennsylvania command that 
participated in the action. Our association appointed the required com- 
mittee — selected a design of a statue to surmount their tablet. The Penn- 
sylvania State Commission on Gettysbui-g Monuments having approved of 
our selection, the work was ordered done, and we are here to-day to transfer 
to the keeping of the Battlefield Memorial Association, this granite work 
of art, just unveiled — a statue of a "Birney Zouave." You will observe the 
figure represents a youthful soldier, who, advancing up the slope at trail 
arms, grasps his musket impulsively as he suddenly receives the fire of 
the enemy. It is quite a departure from the dress parade figure usually 
cut in granite, and while not regulation as to the position of the musket, 
it is realistic — thus showing the soldier under fire — and one more appro- 
priate on a battlefield. The surroundings being woodland — the figure is 
supported by a broken tree, apparently struck by a piece of shell — all 
details as to uniform and accoutrements have been brought artistically 
out, and in placing this work of art in the keeping of your Association, 
we deem it a pleasant duty we owe to thank you for the faithful manner 
in which you have labored for the preservation of this field — and in the 
name of the survivors of the Twenty-third Pennsylvania Volunteer In- 
fantry, we gratefully acknowledge the gift of the State of Pennsylvania, 
who so generously appropriated the funds for its erection. 



13 



182 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



ORATION OF BREVET MAJOR-GENERAL ALEXANDER SHAT.ER. 

COMRADES: — We meet to-day upon historic ground. Some of us 
have met here before. Twenty-five years ago, within a few days, 
two great armies confronted each other in this vicinity. One in de- 
fense of state rights, the other, in defense of United States rights. One 
assaulted the Union, the other defended it. 

I shall not attempt to describe in full the great battle which ensued, 
relate the causes which led to it, nor discuss the effect upon the country 
of the resulting victory of the Union army, but content myself with a brief 
synopis of the part taken in this and other battles by that portion of the 
Sixth Corps in which we had the honor of serving. 

Let us go back to the autumn of 1861. The "tocsin of war had sounded." 
The cry to arms had reverberated throughout the land. Fathers, hus- 
bands, brothers and sons turned their backs upon their children, their 
wives, their parents and all that was dearest to them on earth, and rushed 
impulsively to the defense of the Union. To show how spontaneous and 
how general this outburst of patriotism was, it may be stated that be- 
tween July 27, 1861, and October 27 (a period of three months), there were 
added to the army then organizing, about 120,000 men; and that in De- 
cember following there were in the vicinity of Washington and in the 
Shenandoah Valley over 200,000 men in battle array. 

Washington and its suburbs was one grand encampment. Troops from 
every loyal state were being marshaled and prepared for active service. 
General George B. McCellan, whom we familiarly called "Little Mac," 
owing to his success in West Virginia, in the summer of 1861, had been 
called to Washington to organize and command an army for the double 
purpose of defending the Capital and of taking the field. As regiment after 
regiment arrived, they were organized into brigades and divisions without 
much reference to the states from which they came, and were encamped 
contiguous to each other. At Queen's Farm, on the Bladensburg i-oad, 
just on the outskirts of the city, the Twenty-third Pennsylvania, Colonel 
Birney ; the Thirty-first Pennsylvania, which afterwards became the 
Eighty-second Pennsylvania, Colonel Williams; the Sixty-fifth New York, 
Colonel Cochrane, and the Sixty-seventh New York, Colonel Adams, 
were encamped, and formed what was known as Graham's Brigade, under 
the command of Brigadier-General Pike Graham, an officer formerly of 
the United States cavalry service. This brigade formed part of the division 
commanded by General Don Carlos Buell. 

As early as October, 1861, the organization of the army was practically 
completed, and from that time until April, 1862, when the Peninsular 
campaign was begun, were drilled and schooled in the practices of war. 
The monotonous routine of camp life was varied only by an occasional 
wild rumor of approaching rebels, and a reconnaissance of the surround- 
ing country. 

With the exception of a skirmish at Lewinsville, Virginia, just beyond 
Chain bridge, in which a part of the brigade (the Chasseur Regiment) was 
engaged, the troops had so far experienced only the drudgery and the 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 1S3 

jollities of camp life. But this was ended in the spring of 1862, by the 
cry of "On to Richmond," when our brigade, with the rest of the army, took 
transports at Alexandria for Fortress Monroe. In the meantime the Sixty- 
first Pennsylvania, Colonel Rippey, had joined us. 

The campaign was begun with three corps of the army, to wit:^the 
Second, commanded by General Sumner; the Third, commanded by General 
Heiutzelman, and the Fourth, commanded by General Keyes. Couch's 
Division, to which we were attached, belonged to Keyes' Corps. Our ad- 
vance up the Peninsula was slow and tedious, although no ienemy was seen 
until we reached Yorktown. Pending the seige of that place we were 
occupied in watching Warwick river. The battle of Williamsburg followed 
the evacuation of Yorktown, and our brigade, after marching all day 
through a drizzling rain and mud ankle-deep, reached the battlefield in 
time to support some of Hooker's troops in making their final charge. 

Before we had advanced far enough from Fortress Monroe to see the 
enemy. General Graham was relieved from duty and General Wessells, 
also of the regular army, put in command of the brigade. General Wes- 
sells was in a short time succeeded by another regular officer. General 
Abercrombie, who was with us at Fair Oaks, and retained the command 
until after the second battle of Bull Run, fought by General Pope. 

We crossed the Chickahominy at Bottom's bridge about the 25th of May, 
and advanced within five miles of Richmond, where, at Seven Pines and 
Fair Oaks, on the 31st of May, was fought the first important and severe 
battle of the campaign . In this battle the . regiments of our brigade were 
separated. We were encamped along the Nine Mile road, extending from 
Seven Pines, on the Williamsburg pike, to Fair Oaks Station, on the Rich- 
mond and York River railroad. 

Owing to the suddenness of the enemy's attack, the Twenty-third Penn- 
sylvania and the Sixty-seventh New York were thrown forward, while 
marching towards Fair Oaks on the Nine Mile road, into a dense pine erove 
on the left, through which the enemy was advancing. They succcded, 
with the Thirty-first Pennsylvania and Sixty-first Pennsylvania, already in 
line, in checking that advance, but were subsequently forced to retire with 
very heavy losses. In this onslaught the Sixty-first Pennsylvania lost its 
colonel (Rippey) and was badly cut up. Their resolute stand, however, en- 
abled the rest of the brigade to reach Fair Oaks Station, where, after 
holding position a short time, the Thirty-first Pennsylvania and Sixty-first 
Pennsylvania having previously taken position in advance of their camps 
near the railroad station, they were withdrawn under the personal super- 
vision of General Couch, the division commander, with a section of Brady's 
Battery, the Sixty-second New York, Colonel Riker, and the Seventh Massa- 
chusetts, Colonel Russell, along the road leading to the Grape Vine bridge, 
so far as the Adams House. 

The Thirty-first Pennsylvania, the Sixty -fifth New York and two com- 
panies of the Sixty-first Pennsylvania, which had been on the picket line, 
were posted in the order named on the right of the road facing and on 
the edge of a dense woods, while the Sixty-second New York, Brady's guns 
and the Seventh Massachusetts were posted in the order named on the 



184 Pennsylvania at Oettyshurg. 

left of the road, on a knoll overlooking an open field and flanking the woods 
along which the first-named regiments had been formed. 

The enemy's advance through the piece of woods was resolute and per- 
sistent. Regiment after regiment was brought forward to drive us back 
and get on the flank of Brady's guns, but without avail. The dogged ten- 
acity with which the men of the Thirty-first Pennsylvania, the Chasseurs 
and the Sixty-first Pennsylvania clung to their position, outmarched the 
fierceness of the enemy's assault. 

Despairing of success in their efforts to flank the artillery, the enemy 
essayed a direct attack, but with no better success, although a few dead 
rebels were found within twenty-yards of the muzzles of the guns. This 
attack was made about two o'clock in the afternoon, and so sudden that 
the bridges commander. General Abercrombie, was caught in the woods 
between the lines and received a slight wound in the face. Between four 
and five o'clock in the leading brigade of Sedgwick's Division and Kirby's 
Battery of twelve-pounders, which had crossed the Chickahominy on the 
Grape Vine bridge, arrived on the field. 

The infantry were posted on the right and in the rear of our line, and 
the artillery on the knoll beside Brady's two guns. Other infantry were put 
in position on the left of the artillery, and connection made with th,e troops 
which had been forced back by the impetuosity of the assault. Fresh 
troops were advanced by the enemy and the battle raged until dark, but 
not an inch of ground was yielded. The conduct of our men in this battle 
furnishes an example of the benefits derived from proper instruction and 
rigid discipline. Under guidance of their ofiicers, they reserved their fire 
until the enemy could be seen through the thicket in front of them. As 
a result, a large proportion of the shots were effective. The Chasseur Regi- 
ment captured a battle flag and the next morning buried over one hundred 
rebels found in their front. 

The following day the brigade was again united and moved to au ad- 
vanced position. On the 26th of June the extreme right of our army at 
Mechanicsville was attacked by the rebels in force, and from that time until 
July 1st, when the battle of Malvern Hill was fought, we experienced all 
the trials and sufferings incident to a forced march of six days, without 
sleep, shelter or regular food. At Malvern Hill, our division, having been 
among the first to arrive, was naturally assigned the most important posi- 
tion. Three several times it was assailed by the rebels, who were repulsed 
with fearful loss. On the right of the line, held by Couch's Division, the 
Cha.sseur Regiment was at one time compelled to change front under fire, 
and did it with such wonderful coolness and precision as to command the 
admiration and the compliments of the brigade commander. 

The six weeks encampment of the Army of the Potomac at Harrison's 
Landing, on the James river, its transfer to the city of Washington, the 
part it took in supporting Pope's army in the second battle of Bull Run, and 
its subsequent reorganization by General McCellan, furnish nothing of 
special note in reference to our brigade, except that Brigadier-General John 
Cochrane, who had been promoted from the colonelcy of Chasseur Regi- 
ment after the battle of Fair Oaks, was put in command of our brigade 
in the place of General Abercrombie, who had been assigned to duty at 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 185 

Centreville, after Pope's campaign, and Couch's Division was transferred 
to tlie Sixth Corps, commanded by General Franklin. 

In the reorganization of the army, early in September, while on the 
march, the One Hundred and twenty-second New York regiment. Colonel 
Silas Titus, was added to our brigade, and we became the First Brigade, 
Third Division, Sixth Corps. 

After the defeat of Pope at Manassas, Lee boldly struck out northward, 
in the direction of Leesburg, necessitating great caution on the part of 
McCellan, who had been again verhalhj placed in command of the troops 
about Washington, embracing those designated as the Army of Virginia. 

The battlefield of Antietam was reached by our brigade early in the 
afternoon of the 17th of September, after a tramp through Pleasant Valley 
and up to the top of Maryland Heights, in search of the rebel General 
McLaws, on one of the hottest days and over the dustiest road we had 
ever marched. At Antietam we relieved that part of the line to the 
right of a corn field and immediately in front of Dunker Church. This line 
we occupied until the morning of the 19th, when our division was put in 
pursuit of the fleeing rebels, the rear guard of which we had a fight with, 
and drove across the river at Williamsport. 

McCellan's tardiness after the battle of Antietam caused much uneasi- 
ness and great dissatisfaction with the authorities at Washington, and 
resulted in his being relieved at Warren ton, and General Burnside being 
placed in command of the Army of the Potomac on the 9th of November, 
1862. 

Upon the reorganization of the army which followed. General Couch was 
assigned to the command of the Second Corps and General John Newton 
to the command of the Third Division, Sixth Corps. 

In the calamitous failure of Burnside's attack on Fredericksburg, De- 
cember 13th to 15th, the Sixth Corps, then in command of General W. F. 
Smith, popularly known as "Baldy Smith," formed a part of the Left Grand 
Division, commanded by General Franklin. 

We crossed the Rappahannock about three miles below the city, near 
the Bernard House, and supported General Meade in his attack upon the 
enemy's right, without serious loss, although constantly under a heavy 
artillery fire. On the 20th of January following. General Burnside con- 
sidered that "the auspiciuous moment had arrived" and issued his orders for 
recrossing the Rappahannock at Banks' Ford. No sooner had the troops 
broken camp than the rain commenced to fall in torrents, and, after flound- 
ering around a whole day, they returned to camp at night, having added 
nothing to our prestige or that of the commanding genei-al, and nothing 
to history, except the record of a "mud march." 

General Burnside's retirement from the command of the army soon fel- 
lowed, and General Hooker, already known as "Fighting Joe" for his gal- 
lant and persistent assaults upon the rebel earthworks at Williamsburg, on 
the Peninsula, and at South Mountain and Antietam, superseded him. 
Then followed another reorganization of the army, in which the Sixty-first 
Pennsylvania was taken from our brigade and made a part of the Light 
Brigade, organized for special purposes. 



186 Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 

The resignation of General Cochrane, on the 1st of March, 1863, placed 
the speaker in command of the brigade. General Hooker's first field 
operation was an effort to crush the Army of Northern Virginia at Chan- 
cellorsville . 

It was a part of his plan to have Sedgwick, who now commanded the 
Sixth Corps, assault and carry the Heights of Fredericksburg, move out on 
the road to Chancellorsville, and strike the rear of Lee's army while he, 
Hooker, engaged it in front. For that purpose the Sixth Corps crossed 
the Rappahannock below Fredericksburg, near the old Franklin crossing, 
on April 29th, and on the night of Saturday, May 2d, at la. m., commenced 
a flank march into Fredericksburg. 

Our brigade was honored with the advance and instructed to let nothing 
impede the march through the town, over the heights and out on the 
Chancellorsville road ; an easy order for a general to give, but not easy of 
execution, in the presence of a wide-awake enemy, holding earthworks 
across your path, an effort to take which had already cost fifteen thousand 
lives. After driving in the outposts, in which the Chasseur Regiment, under 
the lamented Hamblin, showed conspicuous gallantry, losing many men 
and leaving Major Healy on the ground mortally wounded, as was sup- 
posed, we continued our march until the enemy's line of defenses at the 
foot of Marye's Heights was encountered, when, by an order of the divi- 
sion commander, the head of the column entered the city, leaving one of 
our regiments, the Twenty-third Pennsylvania, deployed in the open field 
facing the never-to-be-forgotten stone wall. When daylight appeared the 
men of the Twenty-third found themselves exposed to the enemy's fire, 
and for five long hours, without an opportunity to even make a cup of 
coffee, they maintained this harrassing position. About 10 o'clock Sunday 
morning the columns and deployed lines were formed by General Newton 
for storming the heights. The column on the extreme right was composed 
of the Sixty-first Pennsylvania and , Forty-third New York, of the Light 
Brigade, under the command of Colonel Spear, and was supported by the 
Eighty-second Pennsj'lvania and the Sixty-seventh New York, of our bri- 
gade, under command of the speaker. The Twenty-third Pennsylvania 
formed a part of the deployed line on the left of the second column of 
attack. The Chasseur Regiment and the One hundred and twenty-second 
New York were directed to follow with the rest of our division and join the 
brigade after the heights had been carried . 

Upon the opening of Newton's batteries both columns debouched from 
under cover, and the deployed lines advanced to the assault. Spear's 
column on the right was enfiladed by batteries stationed in the road at the 
top of the hill and in the works on each side of the road ; rifle-pits at the 
base of the hill also confronted him. The column moved out on the double- 
quick, but the road was narrow and before the column had passed over 
half the distance it was literally swept away by the iron hail showered 
upon it. Colonel Spear fell mortally wounded. Major Bassett, with the 
Eighty -second Pennsylvania, found himself at the head of the column, and 
struggled manfully to carry his men forward, and finally, encouraged by the 
presence of their brigade commander with his two aides. Lieutenants Arm- 
strong and Johnson, rushed forward with the Sixty-seventh New York and 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 187 

carried tho heights, capturing two pieces of the Washington battery of 
artillery, one officer and a number of men. The Twenty-third Pennsyl- 
vania, in deployed line, with the Fifth Wisconsin, Sixth Maine and Thirty- 
first New York, moved gallantly to the charge. An eye-witness belonging 
to the Second Division, in speaking of this line, says, "Four more gallant 
regiments could not be found in the service. Leaving everything but guns 
and ammunition they started forward, encountering a shower of bullets, 
grape and canister as soon as they rose above a slight knoll. It was a 
noble speotable and filled our hearts with pride for our brave comrades." 

The brigade was subsequently united and marched out on the road to 
Chancellorsville. The enemy's occupation of Salem Heights stopped our ad- 
vance, and in the battle which ensued we took position in an open field 
to the right of the road, which was held until the evening of the 4th, when 
the whole corps recrossed the Rappahannock at Banks' Ford and returned 
to our old camps. Throughout this short campaign the conduct of the 
officers and men of our brigade was everything that could be desired : and 
it was through no fault of theirs or any other part of the Sixth Corps, that 
Hooker's first campaign came to such an inglorious end. 

Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville had so improved the morale of the 
rebel array which had been reinforced by two of Longstreet's division from 
the James river and a large number of conscripts from Richmond, that Lee 
determined upon an invasion of the North. This threw the Army of the 
Potomac on the defensive. So. on the 1.3th of June, Hooker broke up his 
camp on the Rappahannock and moved northward. The Sixth Corps had, 
on the 6th of that month, again crossed the river at the Bernard House, 
and for a week observed the movements of the rebels who occupied the 
defenses of Fredericksburg Heights, but recrossed and followed the main 
army on the 14th by forced marches until the vicinity of Washington was 
reached. The Potomac river was crossed at Edwards* Ferry on the 26th 
of June, and the march of the army directed on Frederick City. About 
this same time differences arose between General Halleck at Washington 
and General Hooker, in relation chiefly to the disposition of the forces at 
Harper's Ferry, and General Hooker asked to be relieved. General George 
G. Meade, then commanding the Fifth Corps, was immediately placed in 
command of the army. 

From Frederick City our corps marched to Manchester, which would have 
been the extreme right of the army if Meade's line of battle had been 
formed along Pipe creek, as some suppose he had intended. But events 
occurred which determined Gettysburg to be the ground upon which was 
to be fought the mightiest and most sanguinary battle of modern times. 
The operations of the First and Eleventh Corps on Seminary Ridge, where 
Reynolds lost his life, on the 1st of July, were important, in that they pre- 
vented the rebels from occupying the favorable ground upon which our 
army was subsequently formed for battle. 

On the night of the 1st of July our corps was at Manchester thirty-six 
miles away. At 9 o'clock in the evening we started for Gettysburg and 
did not halt for any length of time until we reached Rock creek which 
crosses the Baltimore pike about a mile from here. There we rested and 
made coffee. Resuming the march we moved to the base of Little Round 



188 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

Top, where the Fifth Corps was stemming the rebel current which had 
forced back portions of the Third Corps. Two of our brigades were imme- 
diately thrown forward to the relief of the Fifth Corps, while the rest 
were placed in a line of reserve. Before leaving Manchester, our division 
commander. General Newton, took leave of us and went immediately to 
the front to assume command of the First Corps in the place of General 
Reynolds, who had been killed that morning, and General Wheaton, by 
virtue of his rank assumed command of this division. 

This march of the Sixth Corps, of thirty-six mUes in seventeen hours on 
a sultry summer night and morning, is probably the most memorable one 
of the war. When we consider the load which a soldier carries on the 
march, even in light marching order, the absence in the field of all com- 
forts which he enjoyed at home, and the peril to life and limb which con- 
stantly surrounds him, we cannot but admire the pluck and courage with 
which he undertakes the most difficult and perilous tasks and honor him for 
the sacrifices he makes. 

About sunrise on the morning of the 3d, our brigade was ordered to 
Gulp's Hill to aid General Geary of the Twelfth Corps, in retaking the 
works on the extreme right, occupied by the enemy during the previous 
night. The seriousness of Longstreet's attack upon our left induced General 
Meade to order reinforcements from General Slocum, commanding on this 
part of the field, which necessitated the evacuation of a part of the line 
before established. These works were seized by the wily enemy, and at 
daylight our troops undertook to dislodge him and drive him back. 

Upon reporting to General Geary, our brigade was formed in the open 
field, just in rear of the line of defenses, in a column of battalions de- 
ployed. After a personal reconnaissance by General Geary and the brigade 
commander, the One Hundred and twenty-second New York, Colonel Titus 
commanding, was directed to relieve the One Hundred and eleventh Penn- 
sylvania, then occupying a position in the front line. This position they 
held for two hours and a half under a very severe fire, losing many in 
killed and wounded, and were then relieved by the Eighty-second Pennsyl- 
vania, Colonel Bassett. At 9.20 a. m., the Twenty-third Pennsylvania, 
Lieutenant-Colonel Glenn commanding, was placed in position to support 
the front line. Three hours later five companies of this regiment, under a 
galling fire of musketry, were advanced into the breastworks and, after 
silencing the enemy's fire, sent out a line of skirmishers, which, however, 
were promptly recalled, the enemy still being in line of battle in close prox- 
imity to our works. At 11 a. m. the Sixty-seventh New York, Colonel 
Cross, marched into the breastworks from which the enemy were then 
fleeing, and succeeded in capturing about twenty prisoners. At 11.15 a. m., 
the Chasseur Regiment (Sixty-fifth New York), Colonel Hamblin, occupied 
a position in support of the Twenty-third Pennsylvania. About 1 p. m. all 
of our regiments were relieved by others belonging to the Twelfth Corps. 

Longstreet's attack upon our left, and Ewell's attack upon our right had 
both failed; and now a desperate attempt to pierce our center was to be 
made. As a prelude to the grand assault of Pickett's Division, one hun- 
dred and fifteen pieces of artillery opened their murderous fire upon our 
lines, and were responded to by about eighty of our own guns. With the 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 189 

order aucl steadiness of troops on parade, Pickett's lines moved out in view 
and commenced to advance across the open field to a point just south of 
the Cemetery grounds marked by a clump of trees. No sooner vpas the 
point of his attack made manifest, than every available Union battery was 
trained upon his columns. The carnage which ensued was terrible; but 
on they came, alternately wavering, staggering, rallying and pressing for- 
ward, until the rebel General Armistead found himself pierced by a rifle- 
shot within our own lines, followed by a few hundred of the most fortunate 
and courageous of his men who became prisoners of war. It was while 
this was being enacted, that our brigade was called from this position on 
the right, to traverse the field and reports to General Newton, commanding , 
the First Corps, at the left center, near the point of Pickett's asSMult. 
After the repulse of this infantry charge, the rebel batteries kept up a 
tantalizing but irregular fire; and one of the last shots fired lost to the 
Twenty-third regiment one of its most promising young officers. Lieutenant 
Garsed. A solid shot literally tore him to pieces. Before darkness had 
shrouded the field, the roar of artillery and the rattling of musketry had 
ceased. The great battle of the war had been fought. The stillness of the 
night was broken only by the groans of the wounded and dying, and the 
rumbling of ammunition and commissary wagons. The losses in both 
armies amounted to about 50,000 men, equal to one-third of all the number 
engaged. 

The rebel army was now compelled to abandon all the hopes which its 
scheme of invasion had inspired ; and bitter as the alternative was, its 
retreat was imperative. So, after spending the fourth day in burying the 
dead and caring for the wounded, it silently and sullenly retired from our 
front on the morning of the fifth, and the Sixth Corps was sent out on the 
Fairfield road in pursuit. Lee's rear guard was overtaken in a pass of 
the South Mountain range, but was not pursued beyond it. General Meade 
having determined to keep his army on the east side of that range. It 
crossed the Potomac at Harper's Ferry and Berlin, July 17th and 18th, 
and moved along the east of Blue Ridge, while Lee retreated up the Shen- 
andoah Valley, west of Blue Ridge, and finally encamped in the vicinity 
of Culpeper Court House. The Army of the Potomac went into camp 
about Warrenton, Virginia. 

In an address which I had the honor of delivering upon these grounds 
two years ago, on the occasion of the unveiling of the monument of the 
Twenty-third Pennsylvania Regiment, I took occasion to refer to an in- 
justice which had been unintentionally done us in the report of the battle 
by the army commander. As the remarks I then made in reference to the 
Twenty-third Regiment are applicable to each and all of the regiments of our 
brigade, I quote them verbatim. After speaking a word of praise in behalf 
of General Doubleday, of the First Corps, and General Sickles, of the 
Third Corps, for the services they rendered on the first and second days 
respectively, I say, "And while claiming this special recognition for them, 
I have a less pleasing, but to you a more important duty, to perform, and 
that is, to demand an oSicial recognition of the services, in this battle, 
of the brigade to which you were attached. The student who in future 
years peruses the official reports and records in the War Department, will 



1J)0 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

there find recorded, over the signature of the commander of the Army of 
the Potomac, that in the battle of Gettysburg Wheaton's Brigade was 
ordered to the right, to aid in driving back the enemy and in retaking the 
works. In other words, the troops of Wheaton's Brigade were credited, 
in the official report of the battle, with the service performed by your bri- 
gade. Upon learning of this error, I spoke to General Meade about it, at 
an army reunion, held in Boston nine years after the battle, and he prom- 
ised to have his report corrected. I spoke also to General Wheaton of the 
credit he had received at another's expense, and of the injustice done the 
regiments of the First Brigade. He promised that he would write to 
General Meade upon the subject, but I am not informed that either of the 
promises were fulfiilled. As our great lamented President (Lincoln) said, 
in commenting upon the battle. 'There was glory enough for all.' No 
excuse, therefore, can be given for withholding from any of the troops 
engaged the full measure of credit due them, much less should one organi- 
zation be glorified at the expense of another. In justice to the memory 
of those brave men whose heroic services you this day commemorate, and 
in justice to you who have been permitted to survive them, and to perform 
tnis act of soldiery love and friendship, I protest against tne wrong which 
has been done. I may be answered that it matters little, so far as the 
brigade is concerned, since the survivors have erected tablets upon one 
of the grounds they occupied in this battle. Is it of no consequence to 
the relatives and friends of those who have died for their country, to their 
comrades who have survived them, to the officers who commanded them, 
that the official reports are silent as to the services of the organization 
with which they fought and died? Nay, more; that such reports should 
actually give to another organization credit for services which cost them 
so many lives? For years and perhaps ages to come, the archives of the 
war will be perused and studied by historians and military students in 
search of material with which to compUe history or solve military problems ; 
and must it be said to them, that the records are unreliable — that to ascer- 
tain the services of any particular organization of the army, a visit must 
be made to the battlefields, and the monuments and tablets consulted? 
Such a confession would be humiliating, but it must be made, so far as 
it relates to the services of the First Brigade, Third Division, Sixth Corps, 
in the battle of Gettysburg. And, if I am correctly informed, in reference 
to other organizations also. A greater value attaches, therefore, to the 
testimonials you this day dedicate, than you probably anticipated, for it 
corrects the record; more than that, it stands alone as the only record 
accessible to all, that our brigade fought and suffered in this part of the 
field in the greatest battle of the war." 

On the 7th of November following, an advance movement was ordered, 
and the right wing of the army, composed of the Fifth and Sixth Corps 
under the command of General Sedgwick, was moved to a point on the 
river called Rappahannock Station, at which point the enemy occupied a 
series of earthworks on the north side of the river, consisting of two or 
three redoubts and a long line of rifle-pits or trenches. The approach to 
these works was over an open field, which could be swept by the enemy's 
guns for a considerable distance in every direction, and as the head of our 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 191 

columns debouched from the woods to deploy in line of buttle, they furnished 
a splendid target for the rebel gunners' practice. The scene was grana 
beyond description. When the speaker entered the open field, the Fifth and 
part of the Sixth Corps were already in line of battle, with flags flyiug and 
bayonets glistening in the sunlight of a beautiful autumu day, having; the 
appearance of troops on dress parade rather than formed for deadly conflict, 
liike Humphreys' tactical movements of his division on the field of Gettys- 
burg, our brigade was closed up' and, without halting, advanced and de- 
ployed in the position assigned it, having only the sound of the enemy's guns 
to keep step with. Without delay our brigade was ordered to drive in 
the rebel sharpshooters and secure the possession of a knoll in the right 
and front for the occupation of a battery. This was quickly done, and 
soon after the battery was established, a column of attack was formed 
from the Sixth Corps and put in command of General Russell. Colonel 
Upton led the column with his regiment, and made one of the most bril- 
liant and successful charges ever made upon any field. He not only cap- 
tured the whole line of works, but with it some sixteen hundred prisoners, 
six battle-flags and many pieces of artillery and small arms. His attacking 
column numbered only sixteen hundred. The services of our brigade as 
well as those of Upton's troops, were made the subject of a complimentary 
order from corps headquarters. 

The next move of importance was Meade's effort to interpose his army 
between the two wings of Lee's army, and for that purpose directed the 
various corps to cross the Rapidan at different points, the Sixth at Jacobs' 
Mill Ford, which they did on the 27th of November. Our division was 
ordered to report to General Warren, to aid him in outflanking, if possible, 
the enemy's right. 

Sunday, November 29th, found us in what was then considered a favor- 
able position from which to attack, and orders were issued for Warron to 
do so at 8 o'clock next morning. But when morning came things were 
changed. Lee had entrenched himself in our front and planted batteries 
on our left. The flankers were outflanked, and Warren's heart failed him. 
As he told the speaker afterwards, "he had not the courage to attack." 
But he had the courage to sacrifie himself rather than his men. He as- 
sumed the responsibility of suspending the attack, and General Meade sub- 
sequently justified him. Thus ended the brief winter campaign of Mine 
Run and we returned to our old camps. 

During December, 1863, while in camp at Brandy Station, the Govern- 
ment called upon the three-years men, two years of service having ex- 
pired, to re-enlist, for three years from that date or the war. This call 
was responded to by the men of our regiments, with remarkable unanimity 
and promptitude, nearly two-thirds in the aggregate voluntarily offering 
to continue their services until the last rebel laid down his arms. 

In January, 1864, our brigade was ordered to Sandusky, Ohio, to prevent 
an anticipated attempt to liberate the rebel officers confined on Johnson's 
Island, Sandusky Bay, and remained there untU the 12th of April, 1864, 
when brigade headquarters and three regiments (the Sixty-fifth, Sixty- 
seventh and One Hundred and twenty-second New York) proceeded to re- 



192 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

join the army at Brandy Station. During our absence from the army, the 
old Third Division was disbanded, and we were assigned to the First 
Division commanded by General H. G. Wright, constituting the Fourth 
Brigade of that division. 

Grant's overland campaign to Richmond began at midnight, the 3d of 
May. Our brigade, or rather the three regiments of it in camp, crossed the 
Rapidan on the 4th in charge of an ammunition train which was parked 
a short distance in rear of the line of battle formed by the Fifth and Sixth 
Corps in the Wilderness, and at midnight on the 5th, moved forward and 
reported to our division commander. He assigned us to a position on the 
extreme right in support of General Seymour, who commanded the troops 
at that point. An advance of the line about 8 o'clock in the morning of 
the 6th, so shortened it that in order to retain possession of a prominence on 
our flank, our regiments had to be placed in the front line, thus presenting 
to the enemy a single attenuated line where a strong, well-supported one 
should have been. Early in the day we were called upon to send a regi- 
ment a little to the left, to the aid of General NeUl's Brigade which was 
being hard pressed. 

The Sixty-seventh New York was sent in, and returned in about an hour, 
having lost about one hundred men in that short time. Much anxiety was 
felt throughout the day for the safety of this flank which was practically 
in the air, guarded only by a skirmish line thrown around the rear, and 
subsequent events justified that anxiety. The attention of corps head- 
quarters was repeatedly caUed to its weakness, but for reasons unknown 
to the speaker no troops were sent to us, and it was an easy matter, there^ 
fore, when a brigade of Ewell's Corps, under General Gordon, about 6 
o'clock in the evening, dx'ove in our skirmishers, to also double up our 
single line of infantry. A few oflicers and men of each of our three regi- 
ments were captured, and many killed and wounded. The able-bodied 
who escaped capture, reformed a line along the wood road which crossed our 
line of battle perpendicularly, a few yards to the left. 

The brigade commander in reconnoitering on the borders of this road, 
with more zeal than caution rode into the enemy's lines and was cap- 
tured. This terminated his services with the brigade in which he had 
served since the organization of the army, and to which he had become 
dearly attached. The command of the brigade devolved upon Colonel 
Nelson Cross, of the Sixty-seventh New York. 

In the successful assaults at Spotsylvania and Cold Harbor, and the 
defense of North Anna, which followed the battle of the Wilderness, its 
reputation was fully ' sustained . Throughout the trials encountered in the 
change of base to the south side of the James, and the besieging of Peters- 
burg, its patience and its power of endurance was manifest; and when a 
detached column under General Early, early in July again threatened the 
National Capital, the confidence of the army commander in its prowess, 
and its devotion to the cause secured the transfer of the Sixth Corps to the 
point of danger. The old residents of Washington will never forget with 
what celerity the rebel general was made to retire from the front of the 
Capital and subsequently beat an inglorious retreat up the Shenandoah 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 193 

Valley, before the war-scarred veterans of the Sixth Corps, which, by the 
celerity of its movements, had become known as Sedgwick's Cavalry. 

After this short campaign we find the brigade back again among its 
veteran comrades of the army, hammering away at the defenses of Peters- 
burg, until on Sunday morning, April 2d, the final charge upon the works 
is made. The signal success of the Sixth Corps in this charge, not only 
carrying the line of defense in their front, but sweeping to the left and 
capturing a long line, thousands of prisoners and many guns, and subse- 
quently turning to the right again, driving everything before it, until the 
enemy were encircled within their last cordon of defenses, was the first 
of the series of staggering blows which ultimately determined the fate of the 
Confederacy. The parallel race with Lee's army, which soon followed, 
gave another proof of its marching qualities. But it was at Sailor's Creek, 
a few days later, where the fortunes of war gave to the Sixth Corps the 
final opportunity to make still more brilliant its record by crushing forever 
and utterly destroying its ancient antagonist. It is not a little remarkable, 
but the fact is without dispute, that the Sixth Corps was confronted, in its 
four years of battling, oftener by Ewell's Corps than by any other in the 
rebel army. There seemed, therefore, a providential dispensation in the 
circumstances which placed it in the power of the Sixth Corps, at Sailor's 
Creek, Virginia, on the 6th of April, 1865, to compel General Ewell and all 
that remained of his corps, to lay down their arms and become prisoners 
of war. The crowning glory of a brilliant record. 

During the period of its services, the integrity of our brigade was pre- 
served from beginning to end. While, by reorganization of the army, and 
*he necessities of the service, whole corps and divisions were broken up 
and disbanded, our brigade organization continued intact. Regiments were 
added to it and taken from it, indeed, to such an extent that but one 
of the original regiments retained its identity in the brigade until the dis- 
bandment of the corps and final muster out. The twenty-third Pennsyl- 
vania was mustered out at the close of the Valley campaign, its re-enlisted 
men being transferred to the Eighty-second Regiment. The Thirty-first 
Pennsylvania became the Eighty-second Pennsylvania. The Sixty-seventh 
New York was mustered out at the end of three years, and the re-enlisted 
men were transferred to the Sixty -fifth New York. The One Hundred and 
twenty-second New York was not an original member, but joined in the 
summer of 1862, and was transferred to Bidwell's Brigade of the Second 
Division, Sixth Corps, in the summer of 1864. The Sixty-first Pennsylvania 
was taken to make up a Light Brigade, and never returned to us. The 
Sixty-fifth New York (First United States Chasseurs, as it was called), 
was, therefore, the only one of all of the original members which retained 
its identity through four long years of war, and until the final disbandment 
of the army and muster out. It is said that this was the last regiment of 
the Army of the Potomac mustered out. 

Upon the muster out of the Sixty-seventh New York, Colonel Cross 
retired from the service, and the command of the brigade devolved upon 
Colonel Joe E. Hamblin, of the Sixty-fifth New York, than whom a more 
gallant and faithful ofiicer could not be found in the service. 



194 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

In this hastily prepared and inperfect record of the services of our bri- 
gade, it may be considered not improper to speak of the qualities of some 
of the colonels of the regiments which composed it. It is a matter of his- 
torical record, which may be alluded to here, without disparagement to 
others. Most of them showed a capacity and talent for military services 
which sooner or later secured for them deserved promotion. Colonel David 
B. Birney, of the Twenty-third Pennsylvania, was made brigadier-general 
and major-general of volunteers. Colonel Thomas H. Neill, of the same 
regiment, was made brigadier-general and brevet' major-general. Colonel 
John Ely, also of the same regiment, was made a brevet brigadier-general 
and brevet major-general. Colonel Nelson Cross, of the Sixty -seventh New 
York, was made brevet brigadier-general and brevet major-general. Colonel 
John Cochrane, of the Sixty-fifth New York, was made brigadier-general. 
Colonel Alexander Shaler and Colonel Joe E. Hamblin, of the same regi- 
ment, were made brigadier-generals and brevet major-generals of volunteers. 

Having through the fortunes of war been separated from the brigade 
dui'ing the last year of its service, a period in which promotions would be 
most likely to occur, I have referred to those only of Avhich I have personal 
knowledge. No brigade in the army was more fortunate in the quality 
of its officers; and, very many, too many to refer to here by name, were, 
for their superior talent and ability, for their gallant conduct, and for long 
and faithful services, promoted to higher grades, detailed to staff duty, 
and assigned to other special and honorable services. 

The case of Lieutenant-Colonel Dwight, of the One Hundred and twenty- 
second New York, was one of unrewarded merit. He gallantly commanded 
the regiment in nearly all its battles, and until it was reduced below the 
number for which a colonel could be mustered, and was finally killed in 
front of Petersburg, without having received the promotion which he had 
repeatedly earned and was justly entitled to. 

The brigade was equally fortunate in the composition of its staff. Captain 
William P. Roome, assistant adjutant-general; Captain Samuel Truesdell, 
assistant inspector-general ; Captain George W . Ford , assistant quarter- 
master, and Captain Nat. Ellmaker, commissary of subsistence, were all 
officers of the highest qualities, possessing especial fitness for their respec- 
tive positions. They served throughout with unsurpassed zeal and faithful- 
ness, and retired honored and respected by all with whom they had inter- 
course . 

To commemorate the services of this noble body of men upon this field 
of battle, and to dedicate memorials to their fallen comrades we have met 
to-day. In looking back, visions pass before us like a dream. We see the 
demon of war with haughty mien uplift his arm to assail our national 
existence. Rebellious hordes are marshaled for unholy conquest. With 
rapid strides and swift approaches the swelling ranks besiege our capital. 
Indignant loyalty with glaring astonishment nerves herself for defense, 
laberty is fettered and affrighted peace seeks safety in flight. 

To arms! to arms! the people cry. 
The danger to our Capitol is nigh. 

With sentiments akin to filial love, the masses with one accord uprise 
and bid definance. The conflict rages. Death, devastation and destruction 




^^;^^^i^^.^^ 

-f^-" 




Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 195 

revel. Gloom and sorrow prevail. Portentous clouds of darkness envelop 
"us. Evil spirits, with hellish intent, pursue unchallenged their damnable 
ways. The angels mourn, and all nature in darkness weeps. But see, a 
silver lining appears! Peering with hopeful aspect. Peace, with olive 
branch extended, seeks audience. In the distance seething masses of 
armed men struggle for mastery. With diminished force rebellion aim? her 
blows, and finally sinks to rise no more. Victory perches on Loyalty's crest. 
Homeward turns the Spartan band, heroes all! Halos of glory illumine the 
sky. Loved ones meet in joyous ecstacy. Liberty and peace have resumed 
their places. The dream has passed, but stern reality bids us inquire, where 
is father, brother and son? In yonder graves they lie, victims of disloyalty 
and martyrs for their country. Let us keep their memories green, and 
each recurring year cover them with immortelles and sweet-scented flowers. 
And let us not forget the living heroes. Let us remember that to them 
we are indebted for the blessings of peace and prosperity which our re- 
united country now enjoys. Let us remember that the "stars on our 
banner grew suddenly dim," and that it was the private soldier who re- 
.stored' to them their luster, and palsied the hand which attempted their 
obliteration. While our children are taught to revere that emblem of unity 
and strength, let them also be taught the danger of assailing it. Teach 
them to honor its defenders, and if in after time it should again be threat- 
ened, let them emulate the patriotic example set by their fathers on this 
hallowed spot. 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

26™ REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

ADDRESS OF PRIVATE THOMAS V. COOPER 

COMRADES and survivors of the Twenty-sixth Pennsylvania Volun- 
teers^ — We are gathered here upon an occasion made doubly patriotic 
by the law and the pride of our State to perform a most patriotic 
work— to dedicate a monument to the valor of our dead comrades and the 
heroism of a regiment which was the first of the three-year organizations, 
and which, if patriotism can be measured, first saw that the war for the 
Union meant continued hardship, sacrifice and bravery. Almost its entire 
membership came from Philadelphia and the adjoining county of Delaware. 
The record of its intentions stands out as the grandest, in its example to 
the other long-term commands which quickly followed. The record of its 
deeds is synonymous with that of the Army of the Potomac, save at Gettys- 
burg, the greatest battle known to modern history, and here it excelled all 
other Pennsylvania regiments in its losses in killed and wounded, in pro- 

*Org?.nized at Philadelphia, May 27, 1861, to serve three years. The original 
nicnibers (except veterans) were mustered out of service June 18, 1864, and the 
veterans and recruits transferred to the 99th Penna. 



196 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

portion to the number engaged, and the losses of the Pennsylvania com- 
mands excelled those of any other in the Union Army. You all remember 
how, during the long march through Virginia and Maryland to the battle- 
field, at the nightly bivouacs every element of State pride and likewise every 
feature of National love were summoned to support the universal proposi- 
tion that there would be no recession upon Northern soU. 

History records the fact that there was none, and it is within the per- 
sonal knowledge of all the survivors of the Twenty-sixth that the Third 
Corps, to the last man, stood its ground, and even refused to fall back, when 
the fight of the evening of the second day was hottest, to ground suited to 
the alignment sought by General Meade, and not until the shades of night 
had fallen and the battle had lulled, and an understanding of the situation 
had been gathered, did it do so. 

Gettysburg was the deadliest of the great battles of modern history, and 
for an organization like our own to stand out as the one losing most in 
actual battle, is a distinction which the surviving members cannot forget 
while memory of the struggle lasts. 

It is understood that those chosen to deliver the orations peculiar to this 
day, shall confine themselves to a brief description of the part played by 
the command immediately before and during the battle — this with a view 
to enable the Memorial Association to compUe detailed historical informa- 
tion . 

All of our comrades who participated recall the mai'ch on June llth, 
1863, to Hartwood Church, over the familiar lines of the Rappahannock; 
thence, on the 12th, to Bealton, with Humphreys' division (Hooker's old 
and our own), advanced to the river, where we heard by our campfires the 
stories of skirmishes at Newton, Cedarville and Middletown. 

On the 14th our march from Bealeton to Manassas is remembered as 
one of the hottest, many of the division and corps falling from sunstroke, 
so that when night came the losses, if they had been compiled, would have 
held comparison with a battle. At Manassas we had to rest until the 
partially disabled recovered, and on the 17th we moved quietly to Center- 
vUle, over ground made famUiar by the battles of Bristoe and Bull Run 
of the previous year. At Centerville we could hear the clash of arms at 
Aldie, and the next morning received the news of skirmishes in our front at 
the Point of Rocks, Thoroughfare Gap and Middleburg. On the 19th we 
moved to Gum Springs, where we remained until the 25th, then crossed 
the Potomac upon pontoons at Edwards' Ferry, and there began the un- 
precedented forced march over the long tow-path to the mouth of the 
Monocacy. No man who participated in that march can ever forget the 
driving rain, the slippery and narrow pathway, with water to the right of 
us, water to the left of us, water above, water below — without opportunity 
to halt, or rest, or eat, or drink, until the late hours of night found us at 
our destination. On the 26th we reached the Point of Rocks, the 27th 
Middletown, while on the 28th we rested near Woodsboro, with news of 
skirmishes near RockvUle, Maryland, and at Wrightsville and Oyster Point, 
Pennsylvania — where blood was flowing upon the soil regarded as pe- 
culiarly our own. The 29th saw us at Taney town, the 30th at Bridge- 
port, with ever-coming news of skirmishes and actions on front and flank. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 197 

On July 1st we moved from Bridgeport via Emmitsburg to the field of 
battle, and while our gallant First Brigade was en route, late in the night, 
with the Twenty -sixth at the head of the column, we marched into the 
Confederate lines near the Black Horse Tavern, quietly gathered in the 
only picket post in sight, about-faced in majestic silence, and resumed the 
right road to Gettysburg, in time to assume our place upon the second 
day of the battle. In fact we arrived at the midnight closing the first and 
opening the second day, and, after what proved but a nap, our command 
was awakened, cooked all the cofiee and ate the few crackers that remained 
of our rations, then stacked arms, deployed as unarmed skirmishes, and 
tore down the fences between the Baltimore pike and the Emmitsburg 
road — a novel proceeding, but a fit precursory to the slaughter which fol- 
lowed. About 3 p. m., our Third Corps moved to the front, with our 
brigade at the celebrated Peach Orchard, and our regiment covering the 
right flank of the division, separated from Hancock's Second Corps by a 
gap which proved inviting to the enemy, for here immediate and repeated 
attempts were made to pierce our lines by bold dashes and charges. All 
of them were resisted, and but one came near accomplishing its destructive 
purpose. This was late in the evening, when a large rebel force, covered 
by smoke of the guns, quickly crossed the Emmitsburg road, and protected 
by the depression at the right of the little and now demolished stone house 
which flanked the Peach Orchard, with sudden rush and yell, plunged itself 
upon our already depleted ranks. Then the Twenty-sixth and the First 
Massachusetts, our gallant Yankee companions upon many battlefields, 
obeyed the order of Colonel Blaisdell and Major Bodine, and changed di- 
rection by the right flank, in the very face of overpowering numbers. In 
this way the charge was checked, and the enemy were kept closely engaged 
until a division from the Second Corps came to our relief and saved the 
line. This struggle was the most deadly of the day and of the entire 
battle, and as well of any battle known to the war. Its terrific force is 
seen in the unprecedented numbers of killed and wounded, and the high 
courage of the Twenty -sixth is shown by the fact, that no man ran, and 
but seven were captured and missing out of two hundred and thirteen lost 
in a total number of three hundred and sixty-five engaged. In the repeated 
charges of the second day nearly two out of every three of our regiment 
engaged, fell with a greatly superior number of the enemy close about them 
— and what few remained held their ground. These frightful losses were 
largely due to the heroic change of direction made by the two regiments 
named, while under fire and at close quarters — the most difficult movement 
known to military tactics, and the one above all others calling for quick 
intelligence and high courage. 

Patriotic comparisons are not odious, as every soldier realizes in talks 
of the war with surviving comrades. Each and every man loves to tell 
his story of daring, and as fondly loves to hear a better one from his com- 
rade. And none of the seventy-eight commands of Pennsylvania, which 
this day dedicate monuments in honor of their fallen heroes, will deem 
odious the comparison which history hands down as to the brave deeds 
and the unexampled sacrifices of the Twenty-sixth Pennsylvania in the 
battle of Gettysburg. Rothermel's great painting selects the charge of 

14 



198 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

Pickett's Division and the stone angle guarded by the Second Corps under 
Hancock, as the dramatic point of the struggle, and it was upon the third 
day, but neither this point nor Little Round Top, nor Gulp's Hill, nor 
Buford's famous dismounted men, stood a shock like that hurled against 
Humphreys' Division of the Third Corps, and especially against our First 
Brigade, and even more particularly against the Twenty-sixth Pennsyl- 
vania, which held the right of the line. Only the One Hundred and 
twenty-fourth. One hundred and fortieth and Seventy-second Pennsylvania, 
and the One hundred and eleventh and One hundred and twenty-sixth New 
York in Hancock's Second Corps, approached the losses of the Twenty- 
sixth Pennsylvania, and a truthful history will show that the valor and 
sacrifice at and near the Peach Orchard equaled any ever known to the 
world upon any battlefield. 

The One hundred and twenty-first. One hundred and forty-second. One 
hundred and fifty-first. One hundred and forty-third, One hundred and forty- 
ninth and One hundred and fiftieth Pennsylvania Regiments were all of the 
First Army Corps, and the losses of these regiments, while very great, were 
not so great in killed and wounded, in proportion to the number engaged, 
as the Twenty-sixth, and yet those which I have named suffered more than 
any other portion of the Union Army. They were not the subject of any 
painting, but if patriotic blood, shed upon this field, were needed to color 
the canvas, the great supply would come from them, our Pennsylvania com- 
mands, and if reasons were asked for this wonderful heroism, they would 
be found in the determination of our Keystone boys not to take one step 
backward upon their native soil. 

When night had fallen upon the second day our corps obeyed the com- 
mand to fall back and straighten the line. The orators of several anni- 
versaries here, and the military critics have given much discussion to the 
position of the Third Corps in the battle, being advanced in the shape of a 
horse-shoe much beyond the main line. It is not necessary that we should 
enter into or enlarge upon this discussion. It is sufficient for us to know 
that one fact rises upon all criticism ; while our losses were great, we gave 
as great to the enemy, and weakened them for the third and final day. 

On the second and third days our division lost two thousand one hun- 
dred out of four thousand nine hundred, far the greater portion of the 
losses occurring in the scenes here so crudely described. The Twenty- 
sixth lost few on the third day, and most of these by the explosion of a 
caisson at a time when the bowels of the earth seemed to be shaken by the 
noise of the two hundred and forty guns on each side which were then 
ushering in the final and fatal charge of Pickett's Division. 

I need not describe what followed the great battle — the burial of the 
dead, the rest, the pursuit and finally the unharmed traversing some of 
the old ground in Virginia. The old but ever new story of the greatest 
event known to the lives of all the surviving members of the Twenty-sixth 
Pennsylvania, is now retold, in a too general and too feeble way, but some 
of the points mentioned will awaken in your minds a fresh recollection 
of the day, of its sacrifice and of its glorious results. Let me recall an inci- 
dent in closing. On the evening of the second day, with a view to excite 
the hopes and enthusiasm of our troops, telegrams were read to us an- 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 199 

iiouncing Grant's capture of Vicksburg and the cheers were loud and long. 
The news was premature, but two days afterward it came in full truth, and 
it was Vicksburg and Gettysburg which made inevitable the triumph of 
the Union. All, after these battles, was but useless sacrifice, which came 
through the lack of discernment or stubbornness, of the head of the Con- 
federacy . 

More than a quarter of a century has passed since the battle we are 
here to commemorate. None of us can ever see its like again. If each and 
all could find the elixir of youth, and carry his life down the coming' cen- 
turies, he could not again see the like of Gettysburg in civilized warfare. 
The inventions since made in deadly explosives — in dynamite, millcnite, 
strucite — explosives which are a thousand-fold greater than any which 
deafened our ears upon this field, where the roar of four hundred and 
eighty cannons were heard, and the sharp rattle of one hundred thousand 
rifles — a battle like that of Gettysburg is no longer possible. Though ef- 
fective beyond our power to measure at the time, it is well that it is 
the last of its kind. It served a purpose, now indisputably established, 
and let us hope that it was, to our people at least, the final proof of the 
poet's lines, wherein he says: — 

"Some things are worthless, some so good 
That nations which buy, buy only with blood." 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

27™ REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

September 12, 1889 

THE Twenty-seventh Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, under the 
command of Lieutenant-Colonel Cantador, arrived at Gettysburg, 
July 1, 1S63, about noon. The regiment was at once ordered to 
advance from Cemetery Hill to north of the town, to support the First 
Army Corps, General Reynolds having been killed, and his men over- 
powered by the enemy were falling back. This regiment became engaged 
by the enemy as soon as the line of battle was formed, but being greatly 
outnumbered were also compelled to fall back to Cemetery Hill. The 
regiment sustained severe loss in this movement. 

July 2d, about 9 p. m., the batteries on East Cemetery Hill were at- 
tacked by the enemy, and this regiment took a prominent part in repelling 
this charge. 

July 3d the regiment held the position on Cemetery Hill until ordered 
to support some troops in distress about 3 p. m. This regiment was also 



'Organized at Philadelphia, May 31, 1861, to serve three years. The original members 
(exreit veterans) were mustered out of service June 11, 1SG4, and the veterans and re- 
cruits transferred to the ICOth Penna., with the exception of those of Co. F, which were 
trousferred to Co. C, 73d Penna. 



200 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

exposed to the terrible artillery fire that afternoon. It was one of the 
first battalions to enter Gettysburg, July 4, 1863. 

The regiment was organized in Philadelphia, Pa., May 5, 1861, by Colonel 
M. Einstein, and participated in the following general engagements: 

First Battle of Bull Run, Virginia, July 21, 1861. Cross Keys, Virginia, 
June 8, 1862. Chancellorsville, Virginia, May 2, 1863. Gettysburg, July 
2 and 3. After the battle of Gettysburg the regiment was transferred 
to the West, where it took part at the battle of Lookout Mountain and 
jNIissionary Ridge, Tennessee, November 25, 1863. After this battle the 
regiment took part in the march to Knoxville, Tennessee, to relieve General 
Burnside, then returned to Chattanooga, Tennessee, and went into winter 
quarters at Lookout Valley, Tennessee. 

When General W. T. Sherman marched his column south, the regiment 
joined his command and took part in the battles of Buzzard Roost, Georgia, 
May 8, 1864, Resca and Dug Gap, Georgia, May 12, 1864. At Dallas, 
Georgia, the term of the regiment expired and the regiment received trans- 
portation to return home, and was mustered out of the service at Phila- 
delphia, Pa., on the 11th day of June, 1864. 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

28TH REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

September 11th, 1889 
ADDRESS OF BREVET CAPTAIN JOHN O. FOERING 

CO^NIRADES of the Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry: 
We are assembled here to day to dedicate this monument, which is 
to mark the position oecupipd by the regiment in that historic battle, 
which took place on the 1st, 2d and 3d of July, 1863, and we trust that 
the memory of our comrades, who fell on this spot, may be perpetuated 
.so long as this granite shall endure the washings of the storms. 

So much has been said and written by many able minds in the past 
quarter of a century of the part taken by the different corps, divisions, 
brigades, regiments and batteries that participated in the gi-eat struggle, 
that I fear anything I may say at this time may appear superfluous, but 
you all know that we cannot but feel a certain amount of pride in the 
part taken by our own command in the battle which has justly been ac- 
knowledged to have been the turning point of the rebellion, and it is well 
that an opportunity is here given to place on record the history of the 
marches and incidents of our regiment's connection with the army in that 
campaign, which I will endeavor to give you as briefly as possible. The 
Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteer Infantry was attached 



•Organized at Philadelphia June 2S, 1S61, to serve three years. On the expiration of 
its teni! of service the original members (except veterans) were mustered out and the 
organization composed of veterans and recruits retained In service until July 18, 1865, 
when it was mustered out. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 201 

to "CaudyV' First Brigade, "Geary's" Second Division, "Slocum's" Twelfth 
Corps from the time of leaving Aquia Creek until its return to the 
Rapidan . 

Early in June, 1863, while the Army of the Potomac was in camp in 
the vicinity of Stafford Court House and Fredericksburg, recuperating 
from the losses of the Chancellorsville campaign. General Lee, commander 
of the rebel forces, concluded upon an aggressive movement. He started 
his army on forced marches to invade Pennsylvania, and endeavored to 
outflank Hooker, enlist the sympathies of the foreign powers to further 
assist them, and to increase the strength of his army by the accession of 
a large number of rebel sympathizers in Maryland and southern Penn- 
sylvania. How well he succeeded in this is a matter of history. 

He was successful in moving past our right flank, and appeared in front 
of Winchester, Va., on the 14th of June, with a large force under the 
command of Generals Early and Longstreet, and they immediately made 
preparations to attack General Milroy, who was in command of the Union 
forces. Early and Longstreet being successful in their attack, capturing a 
large part of Milroy's command and scattering the balance, the valley of the 
Shenandoah was open for Lee's Army of Invasion. 

Lee had outwitted General Hooker, and having a good start, our army 
was compelled to make long and rapid marches to get within reasonable 
distance of the rebel host. 

On the 13th day of June, Hooker abandoned his position opposite Fred- 
ericksburg and east to Aquia Creek, and started the Army of the Potomac 
on its march northward. 

The first intimation of anything unusual occurring from the ordinary 
routine of every-day camp life was the promulgation of orders, on June 
12th, to hold ourselves in readiness to move at a moment's notice. Prepara- 
tions were made at once, and the command was kept in suspense waiting 
for orders to march until the evening of June 13th, when, at 8 o'clock, 
the order to march was given. Leaving camp at Aquia Creek, Stafford 
Court House was reached at midnight. Continuing the march via Tele- 
graph road, crossing the Aquia and Chopawamsic creeks, the command was 
halted at Dumfries at 1 p. m., June 14th, and biovuacked. Marched 
twenty miles. 

March resumed on the morning of June 15th, at half-past three o'clock, 
halted at 7 o'clock for breakfast. Reaching Wolf Run Shoals the com- 
mand halted for rest and dinner. Resuming the march, we crossed the 
Occoquan creek and reached Fairfax Court House at 8 p. m., and bivou- 
acked. Marched twenty-two miles. This march will long be remembered 
as a very trying one by all who participated in it, owing to the extreme 
heat, dusty roads, very little shade along the roads and the great scarcity 
of water, the water with which the men provided themselves soon becom- 
ing unfit to drink owing to the intense heat. 

On June 16th, the command was moved a short distance and went into 
regular camp. On June 17th, left Fairfax Court House, and marched to 
within a short distance of Dranesville and bivouacked. Marched eight 
miles. On June 18th, at 8 a. m., resumed march, passed through Dranes- 
ville, crossed Broad run and Goose creek, and encamped near Leesburg. 



202 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

Marched twelve miles. While on the march in the afternoon, had a heavy 
thunder storm, drenching the command. On June 19th, at half past ten 
a. m., the entire Twelfth Corps was ordered out for parade, and formed 
into three sides of a hollow square, to witness the execution of three men 
of the First Division for desertion, a terribly sad sight for a fellow soldier 
to witness, but a punishment made necessary to insure discipline and pre- 
vent the depletion of the army. After the men were shot, the different 
commands returned to their respective camps, and remained there, while 
General Hooker, with a portion of the army was reconnoiteriug in the 
vicinity of Aldie, Middleburg, etc., on the search for Lee and his ai'my. A 
small force of the rebels attracted Hooker's attention in that locality, while 
Lee with the larger portion of his army was then moving on Chambersburg, 
Pa., and it was not until June 26th, at 5 a. m., that we left camp and 
started again on our march northward. It rained hard all day, making the 
roads almost impassable, and retarding our progress greatly. Crossed the 
Potomac river at Edwards' Ferry on pontoons, passed through Poolesville, 
encamping at the mouth of the Monocacy. Marched thirteen miles. Regi- 
ment posted on picket, where it remained until 6 a. m., June 27th, when, 
with the entire corps, resumed the march, en route to Harper's Ferry, to 
reinforce the garrison stationed there, and, with it, attack the rebel line 
of communication. (The order for this movement was countermanded by 
the authorities at Washington, and resulted in the displacement of our 
much-beloved commander. General Hooker, and the appointment of General 
George Gordon Meade to the command of the Army of the Potomac) . The 
command passed through the Point of Rocks, crossed the canal and marched 
via the tow-path to Catoctin, reprossed the canal, passed through Peters- 
vUle and encamped near Knoxville at dark. Marched twenty miles. 

June 28th. "The second anniversary of the muster of the Twenty-eighth 
Pennsylvania Volunteers into the service of the United States." 

Left camp near Knoxville at 6 a. m., passed through Petersville, Slab- 
town and Jefferson, halted at the latter place to permit a brigade of cavalry 
to pass, resumed march and went into camp one mile from Frederick. 
Marched thirteen mUes. 

At 5 a. m., June 29th, resumed march, and marched through heavy rains 
and over bad roads, passing through Frederick, Walkersville, Woodsbor- 
ough, Ladiesville and Bruceville, encamped near the latter place. Marched 
twenty-four miles. At half past seven a. m., on June 30th the march 
was resumed, and on quick time, passed through Taneytown. On crossing 
the State line you all remember with what glad hearts you pressed your 
feet on Pennsylvania soil, and the huzzas that were sent up as each 
command entered the State, and how light the step that gave outward 
signs of your eagerness to meet Lee's forces and defeat him on your native 
ground, and one of his own choosing, for had he not left his own State 
and dared you tc. follow and give him battle? How little he knew that the 
Potomac veterans were so close on him at that time ! . On reaching the out- 
skirts of Littlestown, Pa., we were halted in the road to permit Knap's 
Pennsylvania Battery to pass, they having been ordered up on the double- 
quick to assist the cavalry, who were engaged with the enemy near Han- 
over. Our forces were successful there and drove the enemv some distance 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 203 

beyond Hanover. The residents of Littlestown received us very kindly, 
giving us plenty to eat, and supplied us with good, clear, cold water to 
quench our thirst, and will ever be remembered for their kindness. Passed 
through the town and encamped one and one-half miles beyond. Marched 
thirteen miles. 

At 5 a. m., on July 1st, we left camp, marching through Littlestown 
and via the Baltimore pike to near Two Taverns where we halted, by 
reason of the pike being blockaded by the artillery and supply-trains of the 
troops preceding. The sound of battle could be distinctly heard in advance 
of our position, and with what suspense we anxiously awaited the news 
from the front. At 2 p. m. orders were received to move forward, and by 
as rapid marching as the blockaded roads would permit, we reached the 
scene of action at 4 p. m. and formed in line of battle to the left of the 
pike a short distance and immediately in the rear of Cemetery Hill in sup- 
port of the Eleventh Army Corps, who had fallen back to this position 
earlier in the day. It was a night of fears and doubts; little, if any, infor- 
mation could be obtained as to the results of the day's battle ; the silence of 
every one, was, if anything, confirmatory of a reverse ; the knowledge of 
severe loss of life and apparent retirement of our forces led us to fear 
somewhat the coming of the morrow. Marched eleven miles. 

The regiment remained in this position until 8 a. m., July 2d, when we 
were moved with the corps to the right of the pike, ordered into line of 
battle on this "Culp's Hill," facing Rock creek, thus forming the extreme 
right of the line of battle. 

In connection with our taking possession of Culp's Hill and forming line 
of battle here, I will here insert an extract from an address read before 
the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, March 8, 1880, by Brevet Brigadier- 
General J. Wm. Hofmann, Colonel Fifty-sixth Pennsylvania Volunteers, 
commanding Second Brigade, First Division, First Army Corps, whose 
command joined our left on the summit of Culp's Hill. 

"The Seventh Indiana of our brigade, detached in the morning for 
special duty, as I have stated, and not engaged in conflicts with the enemy, 
rejoined us as we were re-forming in the cemetery, and being in compact 
organization, it was sent at once to form a line on Culp's Hill. Major 
Glover, its commanding officer, established a line from the pinnacle down 
to the foot of the eastern slope and on his way back to the center, en- 
countered and captured a scout of the enemy who had crossed the hill 
before the line was established and was on his way back when captured 
with the report that the hill was not occupied by our troops. Grover's line 
of pickets was soon reinforced into a line of battle. It has always seemed 
to me that without Culp's Hill in our possession, we could never have held 
our line on Cemetery Ridge on the second and third days of the battle." 

This I cite to show the importance of the taking possession of, and the 
subsequent action of the troops who so gloriously defended this part of the 
field from the terrible onslaughts of the enemy'. 

The Twenty-eighth in about an hour after reaching Culp's Hill was 
ordered forward, deployed as skirmishers along Rock creek, immediately 
in front of this position. We remained there exchanging shots with the 
enemy, who were in large force on the opposite side of the creek, until about 



204 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

7 p . m . , when General Geary received orders to move his command to the 
left of the line of battle, in support of the Third Corps at Round Top. The 
Twenty-eighth, with the First and Second Brigades of "Geary's Second 
Division left the position, Gulp's HUl, which we had occupied all day, leav- 
ing the Third, Greene's Brigade, to cover the front occupied by the entire 
Twelfth Corps. In moving over to the Baltimore pike, we were obliged 
to cross the "swale" between our works and. the pike, and were exposed 
to an annoying artillery cross-fire from the enemy, suffering to some extent 
in loss of men. 

Early in the night, while we were absent. General EweU, commanding 
the rebel force, in front of Gulp's Hill, made an attack on the position 
vacated by us, and history records how the enemy found a portion of our 
works deserted, and, exultant beyond measure, they throught victory was 
theirs; but they counted without their host. Old Pop Greene, with his 
gallant Third Brigade of "Geary's" Second Division was there and opened 
fire, making it very warm for them, and checking their advance in short 
order. The fight was short, sharp and decisive, the loss was severe on both 
sides, and it can safely be said, that had "Greene" and his gallant little 
band been defeated in this section, the battle of Gettysburg might not have 
been the glorious victory it was for our arms. The enemy although gain- 
ing a slight foothold in occupying a portion of the works vacated by us, 
were not aware that they held the key to our artillery and ammunition 
reserve, which was parked only a short distance from them, and should 
they have captured or destroyed this, our army would in all probability 
have been defeated. By some misconstruction of orders or the incompe- 
tency of the guide sent to pilot General Geary to his position at Round 
Top, the Twenty-eighth and a large portion of the division never reached 
there, and were kept on the move all night. The men were weary with 
the incessant marching and loss of sleep, and it was not until near daylight 
of July 3d that the command came to a halt, when we found ourselves 
immediately in rear of the position on Gulp's Hill, occupied on the 2d 
instant. General Geary having ascertained that the enemy was in pos- 
session of a portion of our works, made good disposition of his force, and 
at early dawn gave orders for the First and Second Brigades of his divi- 
sion to advance. With a hearty cheer, the wearers of the "White Star" 
rushed gallantly forward to the charge, and in much less time than it takes 
me to relate the incident, the enemy were driven beyond Rock creek, and 
the vacated works were again in our possession. The loss of the enemy 
was heavy, whilst ours was comparatively small. The Second Brigade, 
"Kane's," were then distributed in the works. At about 7 a. m., the 
Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania was ordered forward and relieved the Twenty- 
ninth Ohio Infantry. Comrades, you will never forget what it meant to 
relieve a regiment deployed in the temporary works that were so rudely 
constructed of cordwood, stones, etc., on the lower side of the knoll on 
which we now stand. The rebel sharpshooters were perched on and behind 
the immense rocks and boulders that stUl remain in the immediate front 
of our position; how as each command was relieved, the incoming and out- 
going troops were subjected to a withering and well-directed fire from their 
skilled marksmen, every shot from their guns made to do its deadly work; 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 205 

and how, when we were safely located in the works, we watched for the 
puffs of smoke from their rifles ; how quick we were to reply, with what 
effect the large number of dead men and empty-handed rifles left behind 
in their retreat told the sorrowful tale. When once in the works it was 
much safer to remain, but the constant firing made it necessary for the 
troops to be relieved to clean their guns and replenish their supply of 
ammunition. It may not be amiss to mention here that on page 770 of 
the "preliminary print of the ofHcial records of the War of the Rebellion," 
it is recorded that "General Meade complained to General Slocum that 
General Geary was expending too much ammunition at this point, but upon 
investigation, he. General Slocum, was satisfied to the contrary." 

The enemy made several onslaughts which were pushed with great de- 
termination, and it showed how grand a prize this portion of the field would 
have been to them. Each time their desperate charges came to naught; 
they were hurled back with terrible loss, only to be ordered forward again 
and again to meet the same fate. Brave men, they deserved better success 
for their undaunted courage ! 

At about half past seven a. m., the Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania, having 
exhausted its ammunition (eighty rounds per man), was relieved by a New 
York regiment of "Greene's" Third Brigade, and moved to an orchard in 
the rear of Gulp's Hill on the pike, to clean their guns and replenish 
ammunition. We had been in this position but a short time when the 
enemy's artillery opened fire on our forces stationed on Cemetery Hill. 
Then and there was inaugurated one of the most terrible artillery duels in 
the world's history. As the fight progressed our position (which was im- 
mediately in the rear of Cemetery Hill) became untenable, as the shot and 
shell fell thick and fast amongst and around us, unnecessarily exposing us 
to great danger. General Geary being advised of our dangerous position, 
gave orders for us to move across the pike behind a large stone barn. 
Remained there until about 3 p. m., more or less exposed to the same 
artillery fire, when we were ordered to resume our former position in the 
works on Gulp's Hill, relieving the Seventh Ohio Infantry. Remained 
in the works, keeping up a constant fire on the sharpshooters perched on 
and behind the rocks in our front, until about 9 a. m., when the enemy 
made their final assault. They were soon repulsed and the firing almost 
ceased for the night. Shortly after the assault the Twenty-eighth Penn- 
sylvania was relieved from the works foi- the purpose of receiving rations. 
At midnight we returned to the works, relieving the Sixtieth and Seventy- 
eighth New York Volunteers of "Greene's" Third Brigade. There was 
very little firing in our front after midnight. The night was dark, and a 
heavy rain falling, every one of us being drenched to the skin, just such 
a night as would enable an enemy to get out of the way without being 
disturbed, which to our surprise was the case when the morning of July 
4th dawned upon us. The enemy having fled, left us in undisturbed pos- 
session of the field and the victory was ours, but how dearly bought! How 
many good and brave men on both sides gone forever from comradeship 
and companionship, from fireside never to return ! How many loved ones at 
homes waiting anxiously to hear from the thousands on both sides who 
will never return ! It makes one almost shudder at the thought of the 
misery caused by the instigators of that cruel war. 



206 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

When it was ascertained to a certainty that the enemy had fled, we 
proceeded to the front of our works, and details were immediately set to 
work burying the dead. Some twelve hundred of the enemy's dead were 
found in front of the Second Division works, of which the division details 
buried nearly nine hundred ; their loss in wounded also must have been very 
heavy, as the number of muskets left by them on the field on our front was 
very large. The ordnance officer of the First Division, Twelfth Corps, 
reports having collected eight hundred and four muskets and the ordnance 
officer of the Second Division, Twelfth Corps, reports collecting sixteen 
hundred and eighty muskets in addition to a large number of bayonets, etc. 
The Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania alone carried to the rear of our works 
over five hundred muskets. Our men being very much fatigued, having 
been withoiit sleep for three nights, and soaked with the heavy rain of 
the night of the third, and having assisted in burying the dead, rested the 
balance of the day and prepared ourselves to be in readiness to start in pur- 
suit of the enemy when ordered. 

It has always seemed to me, and I think I will be endorsed in my opinion, 
when the true and just history of this battle shall have been written, that 
the importance of the victory of the ti'oops of the Twelfth Corps, especially 
the part taken by "Geary's" Second Division, has never received the recog- 
nition and publicity it deserved. Everything that was done here and on 
some other points of the field as gallantly defended, have been overshad- 
owed by the prominence given the painting representing Pickett's charge. 
Without Gulp's Hill in our possession, Pickett's charge would never have 
taken place, as the position on Cemetery Hill would have been untenable 
for our troops. At no portion of the field were the troops under a more 
constant or murderous fire than on Gulp's Hill. For seven hours we were 
under constant fire, and at no point, nor at any time, did the line waver. 
The gallant Second Division, assisted by Shaler's Brigade and the Mary- 
land Provisional Brigade, by their dauntless courage did much towards 
saving the Army of the Potomac from defeat. I do not want to detract 
anything from the heroism or valor of the troops of the Second Corps, 
as they were all gallant and true, but so much stress has been laid oH 
their particular action, on the afternoon of the third, that the part taken 
by other troops equally deserving has not had that credit given which is 
their due. 

When our eyes glance upward as we look at this monument, which we 
dedicate this day to the memory of our departed comrades, we behold the 
emblem, "the star," under which we stood shoulder to shoulder on the march 
and on the battlefields of so many States. I cannot refrain from insert- 
ing here some extracts taken here from a work recently published by Colonel 
Wm. F. Fox, on the regimental losses during the war of the rebellion, which 
in a great measure atones for the shortcomings of some of the previous 
authors of war history and endeavors to deal justly with the part taken by 
the different commands in this battle. He writes: "The Twelfth Army 
Corps," "Winchester," "Port Republic," "Cedar Mountain," "Manassas," 
"Antietam," "Chancellorsville," . "Gettysburg," Wauhatchie," "Lookout 
Mountain," "Missionary Ridge," "Ringgold." 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 207 

"The corps that never lost a color or a gun. When its designation was 
changed to the Twentieth it still preserved unbroken the same grand 
record. The veteran divisions of Williams and Geary wore their star 
badges ' through all the bloody battles of the Atlanta campaign and the 
Carolinas, and still kept their proud claim good, marching northward to the 
grand review with the same banners that had waved at Antietam and 
Lookout Mountain ; with the same cannon which had thundered on the 
battlefields of seven states; none were missing. 

"The brunt of the battle of ChancellorsvUle fell on the Third and Twelfth 
Corps, and yet amid all the rout and confusion of that disasterous battle 
the regiments of the Twelfth Corps moved steadily with unbroken fronts, 
retiring at the close of the battle without the loss of a color ; while the 
Corps artillery J after having been engaged in the close fighting at the 
Chancellorsville House, withdrew in good order, taking every gun with 
them. In this compaign Slocum's troops wore the first to cross the Rapi- 
dan, and the last to recross the Rappahannock. Its losses at Chancellors- 
ville were two hundred and sixty killed, one thousand four hundred and 
thirty-six wounded and one thousand one hundred and eighteen missing ; 
total, two thousand eight hundred and fourteen. The hardest fighting and 
heaviest losses fell on Ruger's and Candy's Brigades of Williams' and 
Geary's Divisions." 

"At Gettysburg, the Twelfth Corps distinguished itself by its gallant 
defense of Gulp's Hill. At one time during the battle, the corps having 
been ordered to reinforce a distant part of the line, Greene's Brigade of 
Geary's Division was left behind to hold this important point. While 
occupying this position, with no other troops in support, Greene was at- 
tacked by Johnson's Division, but the attack was successfully repulsed. 
The details of this particular action form an interesting chapter in the 
history of the war.. Still, some of Johnson's troops effected, without oppo- 
sition, a lodgement in the vacated breastworks of the Twelfth Corps, and 
upon the return of those troops a desperate battle ensued to drive the Con- 
federates out. After a long, hard fight the corps succeeded in reoccupying 
its work. On no part of the field did the Confederate dead lie thicker 
than in front of the Twelfth Corps position. 

"Johnson's Division, containing twenty-two regiments, official report, lost 
in this particular action, two hundred and twenty-nine killed, one thousand 
two hundred and sixty-nine wounded and three hundred and seventy five 
missing: total, one thousand eight hiindred and seventy-three. To this 
loss (of Johnson'.s) must be added the losses in Smith's, Daniel's and 
O'Neal's Brigades, containing fourteen regiments, which wore sent to John- 
son's support, which was two hundred and twenty-nine killed, one thou- 
sand and sixty-nine wounded and two hundred and forty-seven missing. 
Making a total loss in the rebel forces attacking Gulp's Hill of four hun- 
dred and fifty-eight killed, two thousand three hundred and thirty-eight 
wounded and six hundred and twenty-two missing; total loss, three thou- 
sand four hundred and eighteen. Pickett's Division, official report, lost 
in front of Cemetery Ridge, two hundred and thirty-two killed, one thou- 
sand one hundred and fifty-seven wounded and one thousand four hundred 



208 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

and ninety-nine missing; total, two thousand eight hundred and eitjhty- 
eight . 

"The Twelfth Corps, containing twenty-eight regiments, lost two hun- 
dred and four killed, eight hundred and ten wounded and sixty -seven miss- 
ing; total, one thousand and eighty-one." Less than one-third the rebel 
loss. 

The Twelfth Corps was small, but was composed of excellent material. 
Among its regiments were the Second Massachusetts, Seventh Ohio, Fifth 
Connecticut, One hundred and seventh New York, Twenty-eighth Pennsyl- 
vania, Third Wisconsin and others equally famous as crack regiments, all 
of them with names familiar as household works in the communities from 
which they were recruited. 

On page 426, in the same work, referring to his statements giving the 
list of commands showing the greatest losses in battles, Colonel Fox says; 
"Among the leading regiments in point of loss at Gettysburg as given here, 
the Twelfth Corps is scarcely represented, and yet, the services rendered 
on that field by that command were unsurpassed in gallantry and important 
results. The remarkable losses sustained by Johnson's Confederate Divi- 
sion and the three brigades attached to his command were inflicted by regi- 
ments which have no place in the list of those prominent at Gettysburg, 
by reason of their casualties. Granted that Greene's Brigade delivered that 
deadly fire from behind breastworks ; but, when Williams' and Geary's 
Divisions returned from Round Top and found that during their absence 
their works had been occupied by the enemy, they became the assaulting 
party ; they drove the enemy out of the works, re-took the position and 
saved the right. That, in accomplishing this, they could inflict so severe 
a loss and sustain so slight a one, is as good evidence of their gallantry 
and efficiency as any sensational aggregate of casualties." 

Comrades, after such complimentary and just criticism of our actions, 
should we not feel proud of having been wearers of the star? I do not 
think it would be amiss, to insert here, an^ extract from the address as deliv- 
ered by the Hon. Edward Everett, at the ceremonies attending the conse- 
cration of the National Cemetery at Gettysburg on the 19th day of No- 
vember, 1863. Extract, Second Day. 

"At eight o'clock in the evening, a desperate attempt was made by the 
enemy to storm the position of the Eleventh Corps on Cemetery Hill, but 
here, too, after a terrible conflict, he was repulsed with immense loss. 
Ewell, on our extreme right, which had been weakened by the withdrawal 
of the troops sent over to the support of our left, had succeeded in gaining 
a foothold within a portion of our lines near Spangler's spring (foot of 
Gulp's Hill) . This was the only advantage obtained by the rebels to com- 
pensate them for the disaster of the day, and of this, as we shall see, 
they were deprived . 

"Such was the result of the second act of this eventful drama. A day 
hard-fought and at one moment anxious, but, with the exception of the 
slight reverse just named, crowned with dearly-earned but uniform suc- 
cess to our arms, auspicious of a glorious termination of the final struggle, 
on these omens the night fell. In the course of the night General Geary 
returned to his position on the right fi-om which he had hastened the day 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 209 

before to strengthen the Third Corps. He immediately engaged the enemy, 
and after a sharp decisive action drove them out of our lines, recover- 
ing the ground which had been lost on the preceding day. 

"A spirited contest was kept up all the morning on this part of the line, 
but General Geary reinforced by Shaler's Brigade of the Sixth Corps, main- 
tained his position and inflicted very severe losses on the rebels. 

"Such was the cheering commencement of the third day's work, and with 
it ended all serious attempts of the enemy on our right." 

Nothing of any importance occurred in our vicinity during the 4th, ex- 
cept the circulation of numerous camp rumors as to the whereabouts of 
the enemy, etc., the night was spent in the works awaiting raarchiug orders. 
About 3.30 a. m., July 5th, the line of march in pursuit of the enemy was 
taken up, but in a different direction from that expected. The Twenty- 
eighth Pennsylvania on the advance of the Twelfth Corps headed for 
■ Littlestown , which we reached before noon, very weary and footsore. "The 
men having lost so much rest and being confined in the works such a great 
length of time were hardly prepared for steady marching yet." Marched 
ten miles. The Twenty-eighth being the advance regiment, it of course was 
posted on picket, and passed a very quiet night there. On the morning 
of July 6th, at seven o'clock orders were received to resume the march, 
but by reason of General Meade having with a portion of his command 
encountered the rear guard of the enemy near Gettysburg, the order was 
countermanded. On July 7th, at 5 a. m., we left Littlestown, passed 
through Taney town, Middleburg and Walkersville, encamping a short dis- 
tance beyond the latter place about 6 p. m. Marched about thirty miles, 
most of the distance through the fields, the road being occuppied by the 
artillery and supply trains. 

The morning of July 8th ushered itself in rainy and very disagreeable, 
putting the roads in bad condition, but orders to resume the march were 
given, and at 7 a. m. we were on the move, passed through Frederick, 
were halted a short time for an issue of rations, after which resumed the 
march, reaching Jefferson about 6 p. m. A great many men were desti- 
tute of shoes, and in consequence suffered very much, as the march 
this day was mostly made over a turnpike road. Marched fifteen miles. 

July 9th left Jefferson, passed through Burkittsville, crossed South 
Mountain at Crampton's Gap and encamped near Rohrersville. Marched 
ten miles. 

July 10th march resumed at 5 a . m . , passed through Buena Vista , Keedys- 
ville, Smoketown and a portion of the Antietam battlefield, encamping 
at Bakersville. Marched ten miles. 

July 11th left Bakersville at 3 a. m., marched to Fair Play a distance of 
four miles, formed line of battle in support of the Twenty-ninth Ohio, who 
were deployed as skirmishers in our immediate front. (The First Division 
of the Twelfth Corps had a skirmish with the enemy of our right). We re- 
mained in this position until 10 a. m., July 12th, when we were ordered 
forward in line of battle, with the intention of engaging the enemy, but 
the corps commanders having met in council and deciding not to attack, 
we were ordered to resume our former position. The Twenty-eighth re- 
lieved the Twenty-ninth Ohio at dusk. 



210 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

At daylight on July 13th the regiment was relieved from the skirmish 
line, moved to the right about one mile where it rejoined the brigade. At 
8 a. m. were ordered back to the position vacated at daylight. Towards 
flusk we were ordered forward to feel the strength of the enemy and had 
advanced but a short distance when orders were received to abandon the 
attack and return to the woods. The Twenty-eighth was relieved from the 
skirmish line by the Seventh Ohio, and remained in reserve in close sup- 
port. Rained very hard during the night, and the rebels succeeded in 
crossing the Potomac. 

At 7 a. m. on July 14th rejoined the brigade and remained under arms 
in support of the First Division, which had advanced some distance to 
the front of our line. Later on, with the Seventh Ohio, the Twenty-eighth 
was ordered to reconnoitre towards Downsville, where we found the enemy's 
works deserted and returned with several prisoners. 

On July 15th, at 5 a. m. resumed the march, passing through Fair Play 
and Sharpsburg, halting at half past three p. m. on the summit of Mary- 
land Heights, Raining, roads in bad order. Marched sixteen miles. 

At 5 a. m., July 16th, moved from Maryland Heights and encamped 
in Pleasant Valley about one-half mUe back from Sandy Hook, and in 
close proximity to our camping ground of July, 1861. Marched four miles. 

July 17th and 18th remained in camp. Shoes, clothing, etc., were issued 
to the different commands. The Second Corps crossed the Potomac and 
Shenandoah rivers. 

At 5 a. m., July 19th, the line of march was again taken up, passed 
through Sandy Hook and Harper's Ferry. Crossing the two rivers, marched 
down the Piney Run Valley to near Hillsboro, Virginia, when we en- 
camped. Marched eleven miles. 

Resumed the march on July 20th, at .5 a. m., passing through Wood Grove 
and Purcellville, halting at Snickersville at 6 p. m. Marched eleven miles. 
The enemy's wagon trains were plainly visible from the crest of the Blue 
Ridge at Snicker's Gap, en route down the Shenandoah Valley. 

July 21st remained in camp. 

July 22d remained in camp. Company inspection, the first since leaving 
Aquia Creek . 

Left Snickersville at 6 o'clock on the morning of July 23, passed through 
Upperville and Paris, halting near Ashby's Gap. Pickets were posted on 
the Blue Ridge, and tents were pitched. At 4 p. m. orders were received 
to pack and move immediately ; march was resumed . Leaving Paris and 
taking the mountain road, we continued the march to within two miles of 
Markham Station on the Manassas Gap railroad, where we halted at 9 
p. m., pretty well exhausted with the day's march. Marched about twenty- 
four miles. 

July 24th, at 5 a. m., resumed march, passed through Markham halting 
near Linden. Roads in very bad order, and weather very warm. The 
advance of our column met the rear guard of the enemy at Falling Waters, 
near Chester Gap, and after a spirited engagement the enemy fled. At 12 
m. the command was called into line, and marched back through Markham 
to Piedmont, where we halted for the night. Marched Sixteen miles. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 211 

Left Piedmont at 5 a, m, on July 25th, passing through Rectortown and 
White Plains, halted at White Plains about one hour, when march was 
resumed. Encamped at Thoroughfare Gap. Marched twenty-two miles. 

July 26th, reveille at half past two a. m., marched at 4 a. m., p-issed 
Thoroughfare Gap, Haymarket, Greenwich and Catlett's Station. Halted 
near Warren ton Junction on the Orange and Alexandria railroad, at 7 
p. m. Wood and water was very scarce at this place, and it was very late 
before the troops were able to prepare their scanty supper. Many of the 
men dropped to the ground and slept where their commands halted, too 
weary to undertake to make preparations for supper. Marched twenty-five 
miles. 

July 27th moved a short distance, tents were pitched and regular camp 
duties resumed. Remained at this place resting from the fatigues and 
labors of the campaign until July 31st, when the reveille was sounded at 
half past three a. m. and orders to march were given at half past three 
a. m. Arrived at Kellj^'s Ford on the Rappahannock river at 7 p. m., 
a pontoon bridge was laid and a portion of the First Brigade of Geary's 
Second Division crossed to the south side, encountering the enemy's pickets 
and after some slight skirmishing the enemy were driven off. Very warm 
day. Marched eighteen miles. August 2d left Kelly's Ford at 4 p. m., and 
marched to near Ellis' Ford, where the regiment was posted on picket. 
Marched five miles. August .3d regiment relieved from picket and went 
into regular camp . 

Thus ended the marching and duties performed by the Twenty-eighth 
Pennsylvania, in the campaign connected with the battle of Gettysburg, 
and the defeat of the rebel army of Northern Virginia, a fifty days' cam- 
paign, during which some four hundred miles were marched, and one of 
the bloodiest battles in the world's history fought by the bravest men on 
earth ; and we meet here over twenty-six years after, to commemorate the 
gallantry of the men who fought, bled and died on those memorable days 
of July, 1863, that the grandest government on the face of the globe might 
not perish, and we dedicate to their memory this monument, which we trust 
will mark this spot for all time. 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

29™ REGBIENT INFANTRY* 

September 11th, 1S89 
ORATION OF BREVET LIEUT. -COLONEL ROBERT P. DECHERT 

THE history of the world has not presented the story of a conflict greater 
in its results because of the interests involved than that of the battle 
of Gettysburg. The forces engaged between the combatants were 
nearly equal ; the Unionists while endeavoring to prevent the further ad- 

*Organizd at Philadelphia July 1, 1861, to serve three year.s. On the expiration of 
its term of service the orifriual members (except veterans) were mustered out and the 
organization composed of veterans and recruits retained in service until .July 11, 1S65, 
when it was mustered out. 



212 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

vance of the enemy northward, threw themselves into a defensive position 
and compelled General Lee to attack them in their works. 

In the event of the success of the enemy in that battle his passage to the 
Susquehanna, Baltimore and perhaps Philadelphia would have been se- 
cured . 

Four years ago we had the honor to dedicate upon this field a monument 
prepared by the survivors of our regiment, which was intended to mark the 
place occupied by those in rear of the works first constructed. 

The generosity of the State of Pennsylvania has now enabled us to place 
another monument upon this line of works constructed on the night of July 
1st and the morning of July 2d, and which were subsequently reoccupied 
on July 3d. 

We are assembled upon this day on the illustrious field of Gettysburg, to 
commemorate the achievements of the regiment of which you and many 
others were members, when they occupied this field and held it during 
the battle. Its surroundings as it appears to us now, with the over- 
hanging foliage and the peaceful appearance of this autumn day, would not 
suggest that twenty-six years ago there was fought upon this spot one of 
the most terrific battles of the present century. 

Arriving upon the field late on the first day of the encounter, your corps 
was placed in position on the right of the forces that had met the enemy 
at the Seminary, and had afterwards fallen back on Cemetery Ridge, and 
on the second day of the contest you were assigned to this position on 
Gulp's Hill, which you rendered strong -by your physical exertions and 
indomitable will. Had you been permitted to remain here, the result on 
this part of the field would not have been doubtful. The disaster to the 
left-center on the second day required your corps to • practically vacate 
these works, and after you had moved to a position toward the left, you 
returned on the evening of the 2d of July to find them within the control 
of the enemy. Had they known of your evacuation of these works on the 
second day of the battle ttey could have occupied them and then easily 
advanced to the Baltimore pike, which would have seriously endangered 
communications with the supply trains. After resting on your arms on 
the night of that day, there was required of you on the following morn- 
ing the most heroic service. At dawn you commenced the assault, and, 
aided by an artillery fire which was perhaps the most determined of the 
war, you were enabled to recover the works you had relinquished, and to 
hold them until the darkness of night ended the contest and carnage of 
battle. There was then uncertainty as to the result — it was not known 
what fruit the morrow would bring forth, and with steadfast hope and 
resolve to resist all assaults of the enemy, the troops again rested upon their 
arms during that night. 

It was my privilege to participate in a reconnaissance early on the morn- 
ing of the 4th of July under the command of General Ruger, which started 
from the right of Rock creek, passed in front of this position and marched 
beyond the town of Gettysburg by which the commanding general was 
first oSicially informed that the enemy had abandoned the attack upon this 
historic ground . 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 213 

Gulp's Hill was one of the many memorable spots on the field of Gettj'S- 
burg. While Rothermel has selected another part of it from which to 
picture a combat of the two armies, he might easily have selected this 
place to illustrate the desperate determination and bravery of the opposing 
forces. Upon this field your regiment lost heavily, many of your comrades 
gave up their lives to preserve their country's honor, whilst others have 
since suffered through honorable wounds received here in those dark and 
dismal hours. 

The Twenty-ninth regiment was early organized for the war, and was 
selected by the Government as the fourth regiment from Pennsylvania for 
the three years' service. Under an experienced commander, who has since 
gone to his final home laden with honor, it started for the seat of war. 
Ijittle did you then think that a service of three years, "unless sooner 
discharged," would extend into one of four years or upwards, and would 
embrace so large a territory as you were called upon to traverse. The 
experience in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia was a pleasant prelude 
to the active life that followed, though to many of you the recollections of 
Front Royal and Winchester remind you of the commencement of warlike 
experiences. 

Some of you well remember the conflict at Cedar Mountain, the fa- 
tiguing marches and meager rations which followed it, ending with the 
triumph at Antietam under General McClellan. Whilst others will better 
recall the associations of IMartinsburg, Williamsport and Hagerstown, where 
a portion of the regiment performed duty during the same period ; and 
many will be reminded of the privations in prison life while in the hands 
of the enemy. 

After Chancellorsville and Gettysburg the survivors of this regiment were 
transferred to the western army under Grant, where you met and repulsed 
the enemy at Wauhatchie and Ringgold. It was there that the charge 
of the troops under General Geary was made up the rocky and rugged sides 
of Lookout Mountain, driving the enemy before them and beyond its summit 
in confusion and dismay, until at last when the clouds and smoke of battle 
had been lifted away, there stood revealed to our gladdened hearts the 
nation's flag floating grandly to the breeze upon the highest pinnacle of the 
mountain. The clouds which had enveloped the crest, had so completely 
obscured the summit from the view of the troops in the valley, that they 
could only trace the ascent by the firing of the musketry, the struggle ap- 
pearing to be, as has been described "a battle above the clouds." 

Thus commenced the memorable march on- Atlanta, fruitful of good deeds 
and results. I cannot refrain from mentioning at this point, that when, in 
the early winter of 1863-64, the Government invited her soldiers to re-enlist 
for another tei'm in her service, it was this regiment that achieved the honor 
of being the first in the entii-e army to offer its services as a veteran regi- 
ment. 

On the expiration of the furlough of thirty days, which was granted for 
the purpose of re-enlistment, the regiment returned to the same army, then 
commanded by Sherman, and at Buzzard's Roost, Rocky Face Ridge, 
Tunnel Hill, Dal ton and Resaca, it performed an active part. It is needless 
to recall the crossing of Pumpkin Vine Creek, or New Hope Church, or 
15 



214 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

Pine Hill, or Peach Tree Creek, or Gulp's [Kolb's] Farm, or Pine Knob, or 
the turning of the enemy's flank at Kenesaw, or the skillful manoeuvering 
and fighting in front of Atlanta. During this campaign the Twentieth 
Corps, under the leadership of Major-General Joe Hooker, well sustained 
the reputation its troops had gained in the Army of the Potomac. With 
an implicit faith in their commander, that army marched and toiled under 
Sherman, until every obstacle was overcome — Fort JNIcAUister was cap- 
tured and Savannah was occupied. A little later the campaign through 
the Caroliuas was commenced and concluded with the battles of Averys- 
boro and P>outonville. The end of that campaign was reached at Raleigh. 
There you received the glad tidings that Richmond had fallen, and that 
the army of Lee had surrendered to Grant at Appomattox. How much 
of that great result should be attributed to the bold and arduous campaigns 
of Sherman must be decided by posterity and history. 

Shortly afterward you marched over the despoiled soil of Virginia to 
Washington, where you participated in the grand reviews, in May, 1865, and 
you returned to your homes and again assumed your appropriate places in 
the pursuits of peace. 

There are familiar names closely associated with the history of this regi- 
ment: of Murphy who organized it, and who, after a life of unusual use- 
fulness, has been called to his final abode; of Banks, who, having served 
in the halls of Congress, is still prominently in public life; of Williams, 
who died while a member of Congress, a genial gentleman, who graced 
every position he filled, and served his country gallantly iu two wars; of 
the brave and impulsive Kane, who died in our midst but a few years 
ago; of Geary, who, having also served in two wars, occupied the highest 
civic station in our state; of Ruger, now a general ofiicer of the army; of 
Hamilton, one of your early commanders; of Mansfield, who gallantly died 
at the head of his corps at Antietara ; of Greene, a distinguished soldier 
and citizen, wlio, at advanced years, still adorns the community in whicli 
he lives; of (Gordon, associated with your campaigns in the Shenandoah 
Valley; of Cobham and Ireland, who fell in battle in your midst; of Bar- 
num, an able and faithful officer: of Mower, who commanded your corps and 
afterw^ards fell a victim to tropical disease ; of Hooker, a fighter, who led 
you in the Atlanta campaign; of Slocum, the gallant commander of the 
Army of Georgia, who has since ably represented the country in Congress, 
and of Sherman, to whom the nation owes as much as to any other marshal 
for the successful results of the war. 

In the summer of 1863 General Lee planned an invasion into Pennsyl- 
vania with a view of forcing his advance to Harrisburg, and securing the 
supplies and wealth of the State. Immediately the hearts of our people 
were fired with resolute determination to resist the invader and drive 
him from our soil. The purpose of the enemy was bold, the immediate 
results of such an invasion were ai)pareut. The army was then inspired 
with greater activity. There was assigned to its command one of the 
ablest officers who had served with honor and distinction in many well- 
fought battles on the Peninsula — a Pennsylvanian, thus further impressing 
the army with courage and confidence. The advanced force was com- 
manded by General Reynolds, a Pennsylvanian, who fell gallantly leading 



Pciuisi/lraiiid (it Gettysburg. 215 

his cdmmaiul on tho first day of tho battle. The center wing of the army, 
after the death of Reynolds, was eommanded by another heroic son of 
Pennsylvania wliose memory is cherished by his countrymen, who died 
while senior major-general of the army — Hancock. 

The battle of Gettysburg stands out upon the pages of history as a last- 
ing monument to the honor and memory of Major-General George G. Meade. 

The enemy was flushed with victory ; he had forced our army to retire 
from the assaults on Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville ; he had removed 
the seat of war to northern soil, as had been predicted; his available force 
was as great as our own; he well knew his ability to subsist upon the 
rich agricultural tields of the fertile valleys of Pennsylvania; the tempting 
prizes of Ilarrisburg and Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington seemed 
to be almost within his grasp, and with desperation he hurled his solid 
phalanx against the lines at the cemetery, at Round Top, on the left center 
and on Gulp's Hill, to be repulsed again and again by the unflinching men 
who heroically held the works. 

History has recorded no struggle of greater magnitude and more honorable 
to the combatants than the battle of Gettysburg. The leaders of each of 
the opposing forces knew that the result would be a decisive point in the 
progress of the war — a victory there would establish a supremacy that 
could not be overcome by any future successes of the vanquished, and 
each army was actuated by this iminilse and fought with the determination 
of brave men. 

It was however decreed by the God -of battles that your works at Gettys- 
burg should not be wrested from you, and at the same time the glorious 
news was given to the country of the surrender of Pemberton at Vicksburg. 

You and your comrades performed your part in this struggle at Gulp's 
Hill, — throughout the contest you rendered conspicuous services, which 
should ever be remembered by a grateful people. Brave men fell upon this 
field, and their memories ai-e sincerely revered by their surviving comrades. 

It is not our duty now to recall the animosities of the conflict. It re- 
sulted from causes which the present generation could not have influenced. 
The passions aroused by it have subsided ; the combatants have long since 
"beat their swords into plow-shares, and their spears into pruning hooks." 
Peace has been restored to every portion of our country. We are cementing 
the better feelings of our intelligence and civilization, and earnestly repair- 
ing all the injuries resulting from civil war. 

Remembering the honorable lives of the soldiers who fell on this hal- 
lowed and historic ground, let me utter the sentiment of the immortal poet, 
who said — 

"Be just and fear not, 
Let all the ends thou aim'st at be thy country's. 
Thy God's and truth's; then if thou fall'st, O'Croniwell, 
Thou fall'st a blessed martyr." 

The special purpose of our gathering on this day, is to mark on the pages 
of history, for the benefit of posterity, one of the particular places which 
the Twenty-ninth Regiment occupied on Gulp's Hill, during the darkest 
periods of the progress of the battle of Gettysburg. Here, to-day, we come 
again to dedicate a moniuuent in memory of our departed comrades, who 



216 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

sealed their devotion to the flag by yielding up their lives on this bloody 
field. May their memories ever remain as enduring as the granite shaft 
now erected to mark the spot of their heroic deeds. 



ADDRESS OF COLONEL WILLIAM RICKARDS. 

LADIES and gentlement: — Comrades, when I received the letter from 
the chairman of the committee, notifying me that I had been chosen 
to make the oration at the dedication of the monument to the Twenty- 
ninth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, I confess I was some- 
what staggered at the thought how I should proceed, and do credit to the 
occasion, to my comrades, and to myself. 

At the dedication of the tablet erected by the Survivors' Association of 
the Twenty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, July 3d, 1885, in the 
introductory address which it was my province to make, I spoke of the 
circumstances which led to the formation of this great American Nation ; 
of the patriotic zeal and wisdom of its founders ; of the causes and se- 
quences which made it necessary for the Twenty-ninth Pennsylvania Volun- 
teers with thousands of other brave comrades to be on this field twenty- 
two years before ; of our victory over armed treason and rebellion and of 
the public opinion which had decided to consider this the typical battle 
of the war for the Union. That this latter view has become a national 
one is proven by the array of monuments placed to mark the position 
during the battle of the regiments engaged. 

States have vied with States and regimental organizations with each 
other in securing the aid of the artist to make more attractive the ground 
on which the advance of treason and rebellion was staggered and from 
which it was driven backward, beaten again and again, until its final over- 
throw at Appomattox. 

Under some circumstances the place where men have died is repulsive. 
But it is not with us on the field where our comrades fell whilst making 
their breasts a barricade between our country and its foes. Whilst to 
individuals and families death is a separation of the tender ties of father, 
mother, wife, children; or friends; yet collectively those who fell in our 
glorious and holy cause are not dead to us. The memory of good deeds 
should never die, and as we meet year after year to deck the graves of 
our comrades with the fairest flowers of spring it should be with the feeling 
that we are offering incense to the spirits that muster on the parade ground 
of heaven. 

And so when our posterity shall visit this ground which art has made so 
attractive, though drawn here by curiosity or admiration of the beautiful, 
the thought will turn back to that patriotism which offered life and sacrifice 
for the in'eservation of this glorious heritage of freedom, bequeathed us by 
the sires of the revolution. 

The elaborate artistic effort to perpetuate the memory of this battlefleld, 
I believe exceeds anything of the kind in the history of the world. But to 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 217 

completely nationalize the field of Gettysburg and constitute it the Mecca 
of patriotic devotion to our Union, there should be erected on one of the 
many prominent positions a monument surmounted by a statue entitled 
"Memory." Surrounding the monument I would have representatives of 
the various arms of service. On the monument should be inscribed Memory 
protecting the records of the defenders of the Union. Tablets appropriately 
arranged, containing a list of the various battles, with the regiments en- 
gaged, with the number from each State, would make a permanent record 
in which each soldier for the Union would feel himself and his posterity 
honored. INIemory should have a shield on which I would have emblazoned 
the crowning principle of National Union — "Loyalty." 

I have searched ancient and modern history in vain to find a prototype 
of the statue of memory . 

As this field is typical of the great struggle for the preservation of our 
union of States, so this monument would be typical of the national spirit 
of loyalty that inspired the thousands of brave men who rushed to the 
field resolved that our Union must and shall be preserved. I would not 
deprecate the courage of the men we met on this or other fields during 
the war. They started with many advantages in preparation for action 
not possessed by us. They were led by men whom the Government had 
educated in the art of war, many of whom were considered superior in 
military attainments. This with military spirit in their rank and file gave 
them a prestige which seemed to place victory within their grasp : but there 
was a principle involved in the struggle. It was to decide whether a govern- 
ment of the people, for the people, and by the people shall endure on the 
face of the earth. Despite the previous preparation, the military advant- 
ages, the chivalric pi-estige and courage, the truth of the old adage still 
remains, "he is doubly armed whose cause is just." And thus armed we 
were prepared to give our lives if need be to preserve to our posterity this 
great gift of our patriotic fathers, — "One country and one flag." 

Comrades, more than twenty-six years have passed since the preserva- 
tion of our Union made it necessary for us as loyal citizens to meet on 
the field of Gettysburg the insurrection forces that were moving for its 
destruction. It was believed the result on this field would be the turning- 
I)oint of the war. Victory on the side of the Union would send the re- 
bellion on the downward track and show its sympathizers the folly of 
any further effort to advance the cause of seces.sion, whilst defeat would 
give encouragement to the enemies of popular government to still aid the 
destruction of the Union. 

This thought carries the mind back to the battle of Gettysburg as a 
momentous occasion in the history of our country, and the field of Gettys- 
burg a place of intense interest as the spot where rebellion was checked 
in its advance for conquest and again placed on the defensive. As repre- 
.sentatives of the State of Pennsylvania we are here to-day to aid in per- 
petuating the memory of those hours of trial and danger devoted to the 
preservation of our National Government, and I wish that every soldier 
who served honorably in any Pennsylvania regiment could have had the 
same advantages offered to him to visit this ground as those who fought 
here have. We are to-day to receive from our great State the testimony 



218 Pennfiijlvnnin at (ictfijsburg. 

of her appreciation of our services in the war for the Union and especially 
for our action in the battle of Gettysburg fought within her borders. But 
a few years more and the last comrade of the grand army for the Union 
will have been muste'red out to join the immortals. It is the usual custom 
to erect monuments to the dead only. Here that custom has been de- 
viated from ; and the living as well as the dead are honored and the evi- 
dence given that our services shall be preserved in the future. 

In this, comrades, it is commendable egotism in us to say we are re- 
ceiving from the present generation no more than a just recognition of 
services rendered ; and are conferring a lasting benefit on our posterity by 
leaving them a united country, and the record of a heroism that was 
patriotic and a patriotism that was heroic. 



SKETCH OF THE KE>';EMENT 

COMPILED BY THE COMMITTEE, THOS. DE MAISTRE, GEORGE A. BROWN, 
LOri.S R. FORTESCUE, THEO. S. S. BAKER AND JOHN H. HUGHES. 

In the month of May, 1861, John K. Murphy and a numhor of citizens 
met for the purpose of organizing a regiment for the war, and after ii few 
preliminary meetings the following organization was effected: 

Colonel, John K. Murphy. Lieutenant-Colonel, Charles Parham. Major, 
Michael Scott. Adjutant, William Letford, Jr. Regimental Quartermaster, 
Albert S. Ashmead. Surgeon, W. J. Duft'ee. Chaplain, Benjamin T. 
Sewell. Sergeant-Ma jor, Robert P. Dechert. Quartermaster-Sergeant, 
Charles Mintzer. Commissary-Sergeant, Frederick Mintzer. Hospital 
Steward, Eli B. Garwood. Company A— Captain, ; First Lieuten- 
ant, Louis R. Fortescue; Second Lieutenant, G. Higgens, Jr. Company B 
— Captain, Davis M. Lane; First Lieutenant, George B. Johnson; Second 
Lieutenant, Joseph Maguigan. Company C — Captain, Jesse R. Millisou : 
First Lieutenant, W. F. Stine; Second Lieutenant, J. Jacobs. Company 
D— Captain, William J. Byrnes; First Lieutenant, Edward E. Burr; 
Second Lieutenant, John H. Byrnes. Company E — Captain, Samuel M. 
Zulick ; First Lieutenant, Thomas T. Seal; Second Lieutenant, W. D. 
Rickford. Company F— Captain, Louis C. Kinsler ; First Lieutenant, 
William A. Wood; Second Lieutenant, Alexander Cook. Company G — 
Captain, William D. Richardson: First Lieutenant, James C. Linton; 
Second Lieutenant, David Richardson, Jr. Company H — Captain, Fred- 
erick Zarracker: First Lieutenant, John W. Williams; Second Lieutenant, 
William Doughton. Company I — Captain, William Rickards, Jr. : First 
Lieutenant, Samuel C. Reeves; Second Lieutenant, Theodore K. Vogel. 
Company K — Captain, James E. Wenrick ; First Lieutenant, William J. 
Augustine; Second Lieutenant, Philip A. Voorheves. 

These gentlemen were commissioned on May 14th as officers of the 
Jackson Regiment, and when, on June 10th, eight hundred names had been 
inscribed upon the rolls of the different companies, the Honorable Simon 
Cameron, Secretary of War, notified Major C. F. Ruff, of the United States 



I'cinisi/lr(iiii<i (it (!('tt;/shiir(/. 219 

Army, to imistpr the men into the iiiilitiiry service of the United .States 
The work of the musteriiis: officer was delayed however, the first company 
uot being mustered in until June 'JSHh, and the last company on July 13th, 
1S61. 

The uniform adojttid for the enlisted men consisted of cap, jacket and 
pants all of sre.v cloth, 'i'lie similai'ity at that time of this uniform to 
that worn by the rebel troops iK'ing so marked it was deemed advisable 
to change the colm- and the regulation army blue was substituted sonu' few 
months afterwards. 

Ou July 16th the regiment went into camp in J<ines' Woods at Hestou- 
ville, where it remained until August 3d, when it left for Sandy Hook, 
Maryland, opposite Harper's Ferry, and encamped in Pleasant Valley, 
.Maryland, being attached to the Second Brigade of General Banks' Divi- 
sion, Department of the Shenandoah. During the autumn and winter 
months of 1861-2, the regiment did considerable marching from Pleasant 
Valley to Darnestown, thence to Ball's Bluff, Muddy Branch and Frederick, 
the latter place being reached ou December 2oth, where it went into Avinter 
quarters at Camp Carmel. Remained until February 2oth, when it broke 
camp the next day, the 26th, and crossed the Potomac riv(>r at Harper's 
Ferry. Camped on Bolivar Heights, Virginia, over night, on ^larch 12th, 
then mai'chcd to Winchester, where General Jackson's troops had been de- 
feated. The enemy retreated up the Shenandoah Valley, the Union troops 
advanced to Edenburg, where the regiment lost two men killed. On April 
17th advanced to Mount Jackson and made a detour to the right to flank 
Rude's Hill, im which General Jackson had taken position. Reached there 
too late on the morning of the 18th to catch Jackson napping. Forded 
the' Shenandoah river, moved on to Harrisonburg, marched back to Stras- 
burg and went into camp and erected fortifications. May 23d Companies 
B and G, which had been sent to Front Royal were attacked by a large 
force of Jackson's men and nearly all were captured. The Confederates' 
next movement was to cut our communication off with Harper's Ferry. 
The regiment began to move at midnight and at 3 a. m., next day, 24th, 
reached iNIiddletown and turned to the right on a road leading to Front 
Royal, and after a march of three miles on this road the men of the com- 
pany B were met who reported a large force of rebels coming. The regi- 
ment about faced and marched back to Middletown, thence to Winchester, 
where the Union troops (being followed by the Confederates) took position 
on the ridge. 

(3n the morning of the 2nth (Sunday) the enemy advanced to turn our 
right, the Twenty-ninth Regiment being ordered to meet and check them. 
The enemy advanced in columns of regimental front, our destructive firing 
killing and wounding about one hundred. The regiment lost one hundred 
and twenty-eight officers and men taken prisoners, Colonel Murphy being 
among the number, the regiment being the last troojis to leave the ridge. 
The army fell back to the Potomac river and crossed over to Williamsport, 
the regiment under command of the major being detailed to do provost duty, 
three companies G, E and F, with General Pope In his Virginia campaign 
and the rest of the companies at Hagerstown, Maryland. Between De- 
cember 10th, 1862, and April 10th, 1863, the regiment participated in all 



220 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

the campaigns of the Army of the Potomac, having joined the Third Bri- 
gade, First Division, Twelfth Corps, and being confined principally to the 
one camping ground in the vicinity of Stafford Court House. It was while 
at this camp, on the latter date, that President Lincoln, accompanied by 
General Joe Hooker and staff, reviewed the troops, the Twenty-ninth Regi- 
ment being commended by the reviewing officers for its proficiency. 

On April 27th commenced the memorable Chancellorsville campaign in 
which this regiment suffered in the loss of officers and men. 

In the Gettysburg campaign the regiment broke camp at Aquia Creek, 
Virginia, June 13, 1863, crossed the Potomac river at Edwards' Ferry into 
Maryland on the 26th of June, and marched within sight of the town of 
Gettysburg on July 1st, where they turned to the left of Baltimore pike 
and laid on their arms all night. Early on the morning of the 2d moved 
forward to Round Top and formed line of battle. There being heavy firing 
in front, at 11 a. m. moved forward one mile and crossed to right of Balti- 
more pike to Gulp's Hill and formed a line on right of and at right angles 
with Third Brigade of our corps, the Twelfth, the men throwing up breast- 
works. At half past six p. m. the Twenty-ninth Regiment with the re- 
mainder of the brigade were taken out of their works for the purpose of 
reinforcing the left on Round Top. While this movement was taking place 
a solid shot from the enemy's battery struck Sergeant-Major Charles Let- 
ford, who after a few hours of intense suffering expired. Between 9 and 10 
o'clock p. m. the brigade received orders to return to their breastworks, 
but officers and men alike were surprised to find that the enemy had pos- 
session of the works. 

As we were about to enter the woods nearly opposite our front position 
the enemy opened fire, killing Lieutenant Harvey of Company K and tliree 
men, and wounding ten others. We returned to the pike and re-entered 
the woods by the lane at Spangler's house following the One hundred and 
ninth and One hundred and eleventh Pennsylvania. The brigade halted at 
the left on the line of works, and on the right of General Greene's Third 
Brigade, the Twenty-ninth Pennsylvania being at the stone wall. By di- 
rection of General Kane, a detail of skirmishers under the command of 
Captain Geo. E. Johnson, Company B, Twenty-ninth Regiment, was or- 
dered to ascertain, if possible, the position of the enemy. The captain was 
prompt in action and soon disappeared in the darkness in the enemy's lines, 
where, with five of the men, he was captured. The captain made his escape 
near Crampton's Gap, where he rejoined the regiment and reported that on 
the night in question the enemy lay quiet until the detail were within their 
lines and were then ordered to surrender. The brigade then moved up 
between the breastworks and the stone wall, one-half of the Twenty-ninth 
Regiment remaining outside of the wall, the other in the field, halting about 
one hundred and fifty paces in front of the position now occupied by tablet 
No. 1, erected July, 1885. 

All was quiet until about 2 a. m. the 3d, and although it was but half 
moon the position occupied by the enemy was readily distinguished and 
their men seen moving about. They then commenced a rapid firing which 
increased in force until it extended across our front, our brigade returning 
the fire with such spirit that that of the enemy soon ceased. General 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 221 

Kane then ordered the brigade to move buck to the ledge of rocks, where 
dispositions were made to resist the assault. The line was shortened to 
two regiments, the third in I'eserve, two regiments filling the space from 
the works to the wall. As the day began to break the enemy opened from 
behind the rocks and trees and the fight became general. About 9 a. m. 
the Twenty-ninth, having enhau.sted their ammunition, were relieved by the 
One hundred and eleventh Pennsylvania, and were ordered back to the 
ammunition train to replenish, the men taking this time from eighty to 
one hundred rounds each. In about forty-five minutes they returned and 
again relieved the One hundred and eleventh. About half past ten o'clock, 
the enemy consisting of Stuart's Brigade of Bradley Johnson's Division 
of Ewell's Corps, advanced in battalion front to the charge, the Second 
Maryland Regiment in the lead. Their columns moved down on us between 
the breastworks and the stone wall. Our line to oppose them consisted of 
the Twenty-ninth Pennsylvania and the One hundred and ninth Pennsyl- 
vania, the latter on the right extending to the wall, their front partly pro- 
tected by the ledge of rocks. The left of the Twenty-ninth Pennsylvania 
extended to the breastworks. Our men had been firing at will all the 
morning, and when the head of the enemy's column appeared in sight did 
not require orders to commence firing. The enemy advanced steadily some- 
what covered by the rocks and trees, until they arrived at one hundred 
paces fi-om our line where the ground was more open. Noticing by the 
falling leaves that our men were firing too high the colonel gave the com- 
mand to shoot at their knees, the effect of which was noticeable at once. 

The enemy came on steadily until within sixty paces when, our fire 
beginning to tell on them, they began to waver. At forty paces their con- 
fidence failed them. They had expected to break through our thin line 
with ease, but were demoralized by the undaunted bearing of the men of 
the Pennsylvania Brigade of the White Star Division. It was fortunate 
for the Union case that Ewell's Corps met with this repulse, for had they 
succeeded in b}-eaking through the lines of the Twenty-ninth and One hun- 
dred and ninth Regiments the road would then have been opened to the 
center of our position involving the capture of our ammunition trains and 
our hold upon Gulp's Hill and Cemetery Hill in the rear of our lines. They 
could then have taken Greene's line in the rear and have placed him be- 
tween the two fires, forcing him to face the rear, when the attacking line 
in front would have assaulted and carried the works. Skirmish firing was 
kept up after this all day by the enemy on the hill above Spangler's Spring 
as well as in front of our works and of Greene's Brigade. The morning 
of the glorious Fourth of July found the enemy in full retreat never again 
to return to this side of the Potomac river. During this assault and repulse 
of the enemy the Twenty-ninth Pennsylvania Regiment lost seventeen 
killed, forty-five wounded and six prisoners; that of Stuart's Rebel Bri- 
gade, led by the Second Maryland, fifty-two killed and one hundred and 
forty wounded. The pursuit of the enemy which commenced on July 5th 
was continued until August ?>d, the troops undergoing long and fatiguing 
marches. 

On September 2Sth, the Twelfth Corps, to which the Twenty-ninth Regi- 
ment belonged, left Brandy Station to reinforce General Rosecrans' army 



222 Pennsylvania at Gcttyshurg. 

in the southwest, arriving at Nashville, Tennessee, at six p. m., of October 
5th, and on the 28th of same month engaged the enemy at Wauhatchie. 

November 24th the Twenty-ninth Regiment led the charge which ulti- 
mately captured Lookout Mountain, taking in that contest more prisoners 
than' were men in their ranks. They were then moved over to ^Missionary 
Ridge, then to Ringgold, Georgia, and assisted in dislodging the rebels from 
Taylor's Ridge. 

While in camp at Lookout Valley, December 9, 1863, this regiment de- 
cided to offer their services to the government for the war, and upon the 
announcement being made to headquarters were sworn in and were the 
first to receive the distinguished title of Veteran Union Soldiers by re-en- 
listment. 

On December 12th, the veteran furlough of thirty days having been 
granted, the regiment took their departure for Philadelphia amid the cheers 
of the White Star Division drawn up by orders of General Geary to render 
the parting salute, and on December 22d they arrived at their destination, 
meeting with an enthusiastic reception. 

After recruiting its ranks the regiment iigain started for the front i-each- 
ing Nashville on March 21, 1864. 

Taking part in the Georgia campaign they engaged the enemy on the 8th 
of May near Snake Gap ; again from the r2th to loth of same mouth at 
Resaca, losing in killed and wounded eighty-two men. On May 25th, movtd 
against the rebels at New Hope church. Were engaged from June 13th 
to 15th at Pine Knob and in making the assault at this point lost their 
colonel by a serious wound through the left breast, several of our men 
being wounded. General Hooker's attention being called by a member of 
the Twenty-ninth Regiment to the enemy massing their forces in front of 
our First Divisiou, the General, taking in the situation, put spurs to his 
liorse and galloped off to the right of the line and had the Fii'st Division 
placed in readiness for an attack. The attack was made and the entuny 
defeated with a loss of nearly two thousand men killed, wounded and 
prisoners . 

On the 16th the brigade moved to the right to Muddy Creek and threw 
up breastworks, the line of works being so close to the enemy's that our 
men were compelled to take turns in going to the rear of our works to cook 
coffee. In this movement Private Sellman of Company G was killed re- 
turning to the works. On the 17th the enemy fell back and our troops 
advanced four miles. The enemy taking up a strong posititm in a clump 
of woods, the Sixty-eighth New York Regiment and the Twenty-ninth 
Pennsylvania Regiment were detailed to support a battery that was ordered 
to open fire on the enemy three hundred yards in our front. .On the 2bth 
our corps advanced their lines. The enemy fired but were driven off the 
field, a large number of prisoners falling into our hands. In this encounter 
Colonel Cobham was killed, our brigade commander. On the 21st Captain 
Goldsmith was ordered to take command of the Twenty-ninth Regiment 
and on the 22d moved about one mile nearer to Kolb's Farm, thence to 
Kenesaw Mountain, driving in the enemy and building breastworks; 24th, 
the members of the regiment who did not re-enlist held a meeting and 
appointed a committee to wait upon General Hooker, to know from him 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 223 

if their three-years' services were up and if they were to be mustered out 
of the service ; the committee reported that (ieueral Hooker had promised 
that they would be on their way home by the first of the mouth (July) . 

On the 28th our lines advanced, those who had not re-enlisted being 
sent to the rear in charge of Major Millison, who reported to General 
Geary's headquarters, the General sliakiug each by the hand, and were then 
marched eight miles to Big Shanty Station where the cars were in waiting 
to take them homeward. The Twenty-ninth Regiment being now left 
without a field officer Lieutenant-Colonel Walker was placed temporarily 
in command of the regiment, but on July 21st was relieved of the com- 
mand by Captain Goldsmith. July 26th, the lines advanced within view 
of Atlanta and on the 28th General Hooker tendered his resignation which 
action had a depressing effect upon the troops of his corps. On the 30th 
Captain Goldsmith, who was in command of the regiment, was relieved 
by Captain Frank Zarracker, his term of service having expired. In Au- 
gust General Slocum resumed command of the Twentieth Corps and the 
troops advanced slowly but surely on Atlanta, the shells from our batteries 
thrown into the city setting fire to the buildings. September 2d and 3d, 
the troops marched through Atlanta our brigade being in the advance. 
The Twentieth Corps remained at Atlanta until November 15th and during 
this time the regiment was sent on several foraging expeditions, frequently 
for forty-eight hours at a time, in every instance returning to camp with 
long trains of wagons filled with pi'ovisions for men and horsjs. 

November 5th, received (orders at two p. m. to pack up immediately, 
moved out of the camp about two miles, and rested over night. On the 6th 
discovered the enemy's cavalry reconnoitering us. On the 15th broke camp, 
mai-ching eastward eighteen miles, the city of Atlanta ablaze; the fire 
being started by our troops. On the 19th marched through Madison and 
on the 23d assisted in tearing up the railroad tracks. 25th, men halted for 
twenty-four hours until nine bridges were repaired which spanned the 
swamp near Davisboro. 26th and 27th, continued marching and destroying 
railroad tracks. 28th, marched back to Davisboro then to Holcomb, then 
to Louisville, Georgia, the troops subsisting on the country. 

December 2d, met the enemy's skirmishers and repulsed them ; on the 
11th brigade advanced within five miles of Savannah, our left resting on 
the Savannah river and our men lying in ditches as a protection from the 
enemy's shells. 

On the 18th General Sherman demanded a surrender of the city but was 
met by a refusal, the enemy subseciuently evacuating their works. 21st, 
the authorities came from the city bearing a flag of truce to meet our troops 
which resulted in the surrender of the city of Savannah. Our regiment, 
being the first to enter the town, was accompanied by General Geary, di- 
vision commander, and Barnum, brigade commander. 

25th. Christmas dinner enjoyed by the members of the twenty-ninth 
Regiment, the men being quartered in houses that had been deserted by the 
owners. On the 29th left Savannah and marched, keeping to the line of 
the Savannah and Charleston railroad, finally crossed the Savannah river 
into South Carolina on pontoon bridges at Sisters' FeiTy on February 7th ; 
at Black Swamp we erected bridges and constructed roads for nearly a 



224 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

mile across the swamp which in some places showed a depth of three feet 
of water. 

On the 15th entered Lexington. 17th, Columbia occupied by Fifteenth 
Corps. 23d, marched to and crossed Catawba river on pontoon bridges, 
and on March 4th crossed the line into North Carolina. 

The 24th witnessed the passage of the troops through Goldsboro, where 
a review took place by Generals Sherman and Slocum and the reading 
of the circular issued by order of General Sherman commanding his army . 
The morning of April 27th opened auspiciously to the men of the Western 
Army, bringing with it the glorious tidings so long contended for by them 
of the surrender of General Joe Johnston and his army to General William 
Tecumseh Sherman ; carrying with it the dissolution of those forces and 
that inexpressibly happy termination of our troubles indicated in the 
words — Homeward Bound . 

Between April 30th and July 13th, the Twenty -ninth Regiment as a part 
of the Twentieth Corps marched through North Carolina and Virginia and 
participated in the grand review before the President in Washington, being 
.mustered out on the latter date. 

During its service of four years its muster-rolls contained the names of 
over two thousand five hundred men, its casualties in killed, wounded and 
prisoners being eight hundred and seventy, and it returned to the custody 
of the Governor of the noble old State of Pennsylvania which it repre- 
sented its colors untarnished and its record pure and unstained. 

On July 3d, 1885, the survivors of the Twenty-ninth Regiment erected a 
tablet to mark the position occupied by them on July 3d, 1863. This tablet 
is of dark granite with polished sides traced in panels upon which the 
history of regiment is cut, the whole being seven feet high by four feet 
.square at the base. 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

30^^^H REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

(First Reserves) 
ADDRESS OF CAPTAIN WM. D. STAUFFER 

THE regiment broke camp at Fairfax Station, Virginia, on the Orange 
and Alexandria railroad, on June 25, 1863, in the early gray of the 
morning, and took up the line of march for Frederick City, ]\Iary- 
land, where we remained a short time with the main body of the Army of 
the Potomac. On June 29th we marched for Gettysburg, going through 
Hanover, York county. Pa. About five miles from Gettysburg we struck 
the Baltimore pike and marched direct for the battlefield, arriving about 
11 o'clock in the forenoon of July 2d, when we were halted near General 
Meade's headquarters, stacked arms and were told to cook our coft'ee which 



*Organize(J at West Chester July 26, 1S61, to serve three years. It was mustered 
out .June 11, 1S64, by reason of expiration of term of service. 



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Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 225 

we had nut tasted for several days. In a very short time the bugle called 
us to fall in, when we were moved off to the left at a double-quick and 
took our position at the front of Little Round Top, where we lay on our 
arms, bayonets fixed. About 3 p. m. the order to charge was given, when 
the First Regiment gave the enemy (who were following our retreating 
forces) one volley, and then at them with the cold steel and drove them 
through the ravine up the side of the hill over the stone wall out into the 
wheat field, killing and capturing many of the enemy. We remained at 
the stone wall all night. The next day (July 3d) the regiment was in the 
grand charge and flank movement by which many of the enemy were cap- 
tured, and also a flag. They were driven off the field, a burial party was 
taken by surprise and a number were captured. They left in great haste 
leaving many of their dead all ready for burial, which duty our men com- 
pleted for them, for which those who were present as prisoners were very 
thankful. A member of Company E of this regiment was killed this day 
in the very front line, and about the last shot fired at the regiment in the 
Gettysburg battle. We had one company in the regiment from Gettys- 
burg, Company K, and many of the men fought within sight of their own 
firesides. On July 4th, in the morning, we marched over Little Round 
Top and stacked arms about where the railroad station now is, at the 
foot of the hill, where we lay all day and General Meade's order congratu- 
lating the army on the victory was read to us. It rained a great deal that 
day and night. On the morning of July 5th the regiment took up the march 
for Lee's retreating column, marching on the Taneytown road some dis- 
tance when we left the main road, following the enemy very closely with 
considerable skirmishing and capturing a number of officers and men. A 
short distance from Falling Waters on the Potomac they made a stand 
but soon left. This was about July 12th as near as I can remember, when 
the regiment was marched by the double-quick to Williamsport, where we 
were assigned to our position on the left in the main line of battle. Ex- 
pecting to make the attack at any moment, we lay on our arms waiting 
for orders, when, on the morning of the 14th, the report came that the 
enemy had disappeared, Lee had succeeded in crossing the Potomac with 
his -army intact which surprised us very much. The regiment took up 
the line of march, crossed the Potomac nt Berlin, following Lee's retreat- 
ing forces down through Virginia. 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

31™ REGI^rENT INFANTRY* 

(Second Reserves) 

ADDRESS OF MAJOR E. M. WOODWARD 

COMRADES:— On the 5th of February. 1863, while we lay at White 
Oak Church, a telegram was received from General Doubleday, com- 
manding our division, stating "that in consideration of the arduous 
services of the Reserves," they were to be withdrawn to W^ashington, "to 

*Organizpd at Ilarrislairir, October 29. ISGl, to serve three years. It was mustered 
out June 16, 1S64, by reason of expiration of term of service. 



226 Pennsylvania at Getti/shurg. 

I'est and i-ecruit." Leaving the Army of the Potomac, General Hooker 
commanding, they proceeded via Belle Plain, to Alexandria, where the First 
Brigade, under Colonel William McCandless, of the Second Regiment, 
marched to Fairfax Court House to watch Colonel Mosljy and his guerrillas. 
Being accustomed to the freedom of soldiers in the proximity of the enemy, 
and being more annoyed than interested by the guerrillas, the constant 
drilling, restraint of camp and absence of excitement created dissatisfac- 
tion, and they longed to return to active service. 

On the 15th of June General Hooker and staff passed our encampment, 
preceded and followed by the Army of the Potomac. To see our comrades 
moving to meet the enemy who we knew were heading for Pennsylvania, 
threatening our homes and loved ones, and for us to remain behind was 
mortifying, and although we had sent officers to Washington to intercede 
for marching orders, we met with no encouragement. We therefore pre- 
pared and forwarded the following petition which was signed by all the 
officers of our regiment present: 

"Hbadqu.\i!Teks Secoxii Regime.nt Inf.\ntey, p. R. v. Cobps, 
"Fairfax Station, Va., June nth, 18G3. 
"To Colonel William McCandless, Commanding First Brigade, Pennsylvania Reserve 

Volunteer Corps: 
"Colonel: We, the undersigned, ofDcers of the Second Regiment Infantry Pennsyl- 
vania Reserve Volunteer Corps, having learned that our mother State has been in- 
vaded by a Confederate force, respectfully ask, that you will, if it be in your power, 
have us ordered within the border of our State for her defense. 

"Under McCall, Reynolds, Meade, Seymour, Sinclair and yourself, we have more 
than once met and fought the enemy when he was at home. We now wish to meet 
him again where he threatens our homes, our families and our firesides. 

"Could our wish in this behalf be realized, we feel confident that we could do some 
service to the State that sent us to the field, and not diminish, if we could not in- 
crease, the lustre that already attaches to our name. 

"We are. Colonel, very respectfully, 

"Your obedient servants." 



Our petition having been acceded to, on the 25th orders were received 
to move immediately, and at 5 o'clock that afternoon the Second, com- 
manded by Lieutenant-Colonel George A. Woodward, left the station and 
marched in a northwesterly direction through Fairfax Court House and 
Vienna, near which we bivouacked at 11 o'clock that night. Just as we 
started it commenced drizzling and continued so to do all night. The next 
morning at 4 o'clock we resumed our march, continuing in the same general 
direction, passing between Dranesville, our first battlefield and the first 
victory of the Army of the Potomac, and Leesburg, making Goose Creek 
that night. Up to four o'clock it was very warm, and we were enveloped 
in clouds of dust, but a grateful though violent rain set in, which was 
most refreshing to the wearied boys. As we were making forced marches 
quite a number fell out, and did not get up to us until daylight the next 
morning. The Third Brigade, Colonel J. W. Fisher of the Fifth Regiment 
commanding joined us in the morning from Alexandria ; the Second Bri- 
gade, Colonel H. G. Sick el of the Third Regiment commanding, being re- 
tained for the defense of Washington and to join General George Crook 
in his West Virginia campaign. Colonel, afterwards Brevet Major-General 
Sickel, had commanded the division of Reserves from General Meade's 
assignment to the command of the Fifth Army Corps, with a short ex- 



Pennsylvania at Gettijshiirf/. 227 

ception, until now, wlicii I'.i-ig.ndior-Genenil S. W. Crawford, U.S. Army, 
succeeded him . 

The next morning :it daylischt we resumed our march, ])Mssing near a 
portion of the field of "Ball's P>lulT," where Colonel Baker so gloriously 
fell, and crossed the Potomac at Edwards' Ferry on pontoons. That night 
we reached the mouth of the Monocacy in spite of the heavy roads. On 
the '28th, at daylight, we moved off, and crossing the aqueduct of the Chesa- 
peake and Ohio canal over the Monocacy, passed througlt Buckeystown 
and bivouacked about two miles from Frederick City. Here we came up 
with the main army, and reported to General Sykes, commanding the Fifth 
Army Corps, to which we were assigned. This corps until then had been 
commanded by General Meade, who had made application to have us sent 
to him, but the day of our arrival General Hooker was reliev.-'d of the 
command of the Army of the Potomac and Meade assigned to it. 

We started the next day at noon, and, moving a few miles, halted in a 
lane nearly all the afternoon, and at 7 o'clock crossed the Monocacy bridge 
on the Baltimore pike and turned up the bank of the stream, heading north. 
Soon after we waded the river and struck across the fields and about 10 
o'clock bivouacked in a wood, having made a tiresome day's march of but 
ten miles. This slow marching Avas occasioned by our being in the rear- 
guard of the Reserve Artillery, Avhich consisted of two hundred and forty- 
eight guns supplied with two hundred and fifty I'ounds of ammunition each, 
making in all sixty-two thousand rounds. Bofoi-e night that day the 
enemy's cavalry entered Frederick. That night heavy details were made 
from our regiment for a wagon guard. 

The next morning we marched early, passing through Liberty, Union 
Bridge, and Uniontown, where a pontoon train that accompanied us created 
much wonderment among the rustics, who did not believe we could do 
much with our "gun-boats" up in the mountains. We marched twenty 
miles and bivouacked near dark two miles beyond Uniontown and were 
mustered for pay. 

The next morning, July 1st, we moved at 5 o'clock and learning the 
enemy's scouts had been in the neighborhood the day before, each regiment 
thrtnv out flankers to the right and left, in which way we advanced until 
the nature of the country becani<> such that cavalry could not operate 
against us. About 2 o'clock we halted within a few hundred yards of 
the Pennsylvania State line and rested ourselves. That day was one of 
the happiest of our lives, and every heart beat warm with the thought we 
would soon press the soil of our Mother State to whose defense we were 
marching. The bands and regimental drum corps poured forth their soul- 
inspiring airs from morning until night, and light was the tread of our feeet 
to their notes. About 3 o'clock we were drawn up to hear a patriotic ad- 
dress from General Crawford, after which we marched on, and as we 
crossed the line cheer after cheer rang out from the regiments, which rolled 
over the hills and through the valleys until lost in the far distance. We 
soon came to a fine open woods where we halted until night, rolling on the 
good old .soil of Pennsylvania and listening to the sweet airs of the bands. 
Abundance of rations and sixty rounds of cartridges pi^r man were dis- 
tributed, the former for ourselves and the latter for our friends the 
"Johnnies." 



228 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

While lying here, through the branches above us, amidst the bright sun- 
shine, a large star was discovered shining over us with all the briEiancy 
of a heavenly visitant, which was gazed upon with great interest and re- 
ceived as an omen of victory. 

While here all our wagons were sent to Westminster, Maryland, twenty- 
five miles from the battlefield, and the ammunition wagons and ambu- 
lances were pushed forward. At dark we again took up our march, and 
a long weary <one it proved. We did not rest until two the next morninng, 
when we laid down in an open woods, having made twenty miles and being 
awake twenty-two Ijours. But in an hour's time the drums beat the reveille, 
and soon we were again in motion, moving slowly and cautiously along the 
roads and across the fields, and about noon struck the Baltimore pike, and, 
coming to Rock creek, filed to the left and laid down in rear of the line 
of battle. 

The tumult of battle was raging on our left front, but we lay at rest 
until about 4 o'clock when we moved towards the sound of battle where 
our brigade took position on the western slope of Little Round Top over- 
looking the Sickles field. They remained here but a few moments, our 
front being covered with fugitives from the field followed by the vict6rious 
foe. All seemed lost, the right of our brigade opened fire almost in the face 
of the enemy. At the same time the Bucktails and our regiment on the 
extreme left attempted to change front as we moved from the second 
line to the brigade front, when the enemy broke in upon us. For a few 
moments a desperate struggle ensued, but few shots were fired on either 
side, the bayonet and butt of musket doing the work. The balance of our 
brigade charged, and when we, with a yell, pushed our opponents down the 
top and started them over the meadow. At the stone wall they rallied, 
and here again they showed that desperate courage that animated them 
upon every field. But it was on Pennsylvania soil we were fighting. On 
went the flag, three standard bearers were shot down, but up and on to 
victory it went. The wall was ours and the foe driven over the wheat field. 

Plum run in our rear was lined on the west side by Sickles' wounded who 
could not cross, and on the east side by the Confederates who had strength 
to reach it from Little Round Top, while the bed of the run was choked 
with the dead and dying who attempted to cross. From it only could our 
boys obtain water to quench the sudden and burning thirst that follows 
the excitement of battle. 

Until late at night we were engaged in caring for the wounded who 
thickly strewed the field in our front and rear, and then we sank to sleep 
in line of battle with muskets in our hands. For a little while, perhaps 
an hour, not a sound could be heard, even the wounded forgetting their 
pain in slumber. The bright stars twinkled in the heavens and the moon 
shone down in mild rays. Peace now rested over the field where the rage 
of demons and of hell had reigned supreme a few hours before. But the 
loved angel of peace was soon to vanish, the demon spirit only slept, and 
with the dawn's light was to burst forth with all its fury. The restless 
foe at Devil's Den soon commenced stirring and the half-suppressed groans 
of the wounded gradually increased as they awoke to consciousness and 
the unwelcome dawn appeared. 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 229 

At daybreak the enemy's skirmishers opened with spirit, the noise of 
musketry almost resembling battle. Our pickets were promptly reinforced 
by volunteers but soon the fire slackened and settled down to common-place 
picket fighting, affording the boys excellent opportunities for the display 
of address in manoeuvering for good shots which at times created consider- 
able amusement. 

About 11 o'clock everything quieted down and for two hours no noise 
was heard upon the field . Suddenly a signal gun of the enemy opened the 
grand cannonade of over two hundred guns that hurled their bursting 
missiles thrpugh the air and enveloped the lines of battle for two miles in 
flame and smoke. As suddenly all was hushed and then Pickett's eighteen 
thousand men advanced to the charge. Again our guns opened upon them 
sweeping destruction through their ranks, yet they faltered not until with 
baj'onet they met the fire of our infantry, when crushed, torn and bleeding, 
their scattered fragments fled from the field. 

As we lay far in advance of our line of battle we had a full view of 
this magnificent and thrilling sight. The boys became restive and it was 
impossible for the oflicers to prevent some of them from slipping off and 
firing upon the column as it advanced and retreated. Corporal George 
Stewart of E, here lost his life and John Seadinger of H, was wounded. 

It was then, after Pickett's charge — one of the grandest of earth — that 
General Crawford determined to raid the enemy's lines in our front and 
left, and our regiment with the brigade leaped the wall and McCandless 
swept over the wheatfield, crushed into the enemy's line and after a short 
fight stampeded McLaws' Division towards the Peach Orchard. Benning's 
Brigade of McLaws' Division on our left, being cut off from the main army, 
fought stubbornly, but after losing many in killed and wounded and over 
two hundred prisoners and the flag of the Fifteenth Georgia Infantry fled, 
pursued by us for over half a mile to near Slyder's house, where we 
came near running into Hood's Brigade, which piked off on the double- 
quick . 

Night was now fast approaching and McCandless by order withdrew the 
brigade to the point where we first struck the enemy's line near the 
southern end of Rose's woods. Here Ave buried our dead, and among them 
poor Andy Ryan, a boy who had amused us so often with his comic songs. 
About 2 o'clock on the "glorious Fourth" we moved over the wheatfield 
to the north end, and crept up through the wood, pushing the Johnnies out, 
neither party caring much about fighting, in fact all we wanted was the 
position. Here we laid until daylight when picket fighting commenced. A 
few shots from a battery on our left came ricochetting over the field, a line 
of skirmishers was sent out before whom the enemy retired, and the spirit- 
less affair died out, the Reserves winding up the battle. 

The Confederates were undoubtedly victorious over Sickles on the left, 
crushing out and driving from the field his gallant regiments whose arms 
were untarnished by the defeat, but when they wei-e repulsed in their 
charge upon the Round Tops, and failed to hold the stone wall, and when 
their lines were raided after Pickett's charge, it seems that the Reserves 
somewhat tarnished "the silver lining of the cloud upon the left" which 
some of their authors deligh!; in lingering upon. 

16 



230 Pciinsi/lrania at Gettysburg. 

About noou we were relieved by a brigade of regulars and moved back 
to the stone wall where, being relieved by other troops, Ave crossed the 
meadow to Little Round Top. A heavy rain set in, rations were distributed 
and we rested in peace until the afternoon of the next day. 

Lieutenant-Colonel George A. Woodward being unable to accompany us 
on the field on account of wounds received at Glendale, Major P. McDon- 
ough led us in the charges. 

Our regiment took into battle one hundred and forty-seven officers and 
men of which ten were killed and thirty-nine wounded, forty -nine in all. 

At five o'clock on the afternoon of the 5th we moved off in a southwest- 
erly direction over muddy roads, and at midnight bivouacked in an open 
field, and with the division was encircled with pickets. The next morning 
we crossed the State line, where a congratulatory address from General 
Meade was read and we bivouacked for the remainder of the day and night. 

At four o'clock on the 7th we moved off, passing near Emmitsburg and 
continuing along the base of the South Mountains, marching on the fields 
skirting the pike and passing through (Jraceham and Creagerstown, and 
bivouacked at dark six miles from Frederick, having marched twenty-one 
miles over heavy roads. 

On the 8th, at six o'clock, we m:irch<'(l, heading west, and passing over 
fields soon struck the Catoctin iNIountains, up the rugged sides (if which 
we clambered through a heavy rain that had been falling all night. Ar- 
riving at the summit we commenced the descent along a narrow and rough 
road, and had a fine view of the magnificent valley in which Middletown 
it situated, and a large number of troops were laying. Passing through 
the town which was filled with moving columns of troops and wagons, we 
turned to the left and bivouacked a mile south of it. During the night 
rations were served out to the companies. 

The next morning we marched at six o'clock and crossed South 
Mountain at a point where the left wing of our army had gained a victory 
on the 14th of September jfnd where Reno fell. Descending the western 
slope we bivouacked about two miles from Keedysville, within sight of 
Antietam's glorious field . Through the day we heard heavy firing in the 
direction of Williamsport. A full supply of shoes and stockings was dis- 
tributed through the night. 

The next morning we commenced our luai'ch at six o'clock and soon 
afterwards lie;ird heavy counonading. Passing near Keedysville and 
I.,aRoy, we struck Antietam creek passing by Delamont Mills, where the 
etaemy had been in the morning and some of their officers had ordered 
dinner which they kindly left for us to eat. Just beyond we halted and 
threw out cavalry and infantry skirmishers who occasionally exchanged 
shots with the enemy for several hours. 

On the morning of the 11th we moved forward cautiously to near the 
Sharpsburg and Hagerstown turnpike where we deployed in line of battle 
and rested until four in the afternoon, at which time the division moved 
forward in columns of companies with the regiments at deploying distance, 
with a heavy body of skirmishers in front and pioneers to tear down the 
fences. Having advanced about two miles the division halted, and our 
regiment and five companies of the Fifth, under Lieutenant-Colonel Wood- 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 231 

wiird, were sent out on picket. We found the Set-ond Corps pickets en- 
gaged with the enemy on the pike for the possession of a piece of woods, 
and being in reserve to them did not make our connection with their line 
until after dark when we occupied the inner edge of the woods in dispute. 
The Second Corps fell back and changed their line twice through th(> night, 
and we had to alter ours to correspond. 

The next morning, Sunday, we advanced our line, occupying the woods 
in dispute without much opposition, crossed the pike and posted our line 
on the elevated ground beyond, sending Companies C, Captain Byrnes, and 
H, Captain Mealey, to occupy a piece of heavy timber further in advance 
and in close proximity to the enemy's picket-pits. Soon after heavy ar- 
tillery and musket firing was heard on our right, and about four o'clock 
orders were received to withdraw our line about half a mile to the left. 
Here we rejoined the division and soon afterwards were thrown out as 
skirmishers beyond the pike. Some sharp firing took place but without 
much result. The division moved back to their former position and at 
nine o'clock that night we were relieved and joined them. At a house 
behind the picket line we found our friends, the Johnnies, had again ordered 
fur us a fine dinner which in our hunger we enjoyed very much, notwith- 
standing a ball occasionally whistled through the windows and one broke 
a pitcher on the table. 

July the 13th was a rainy and disagreeable day and we did not move 
until nearly three in the afternoon, when we marched to a line of rifle-pits 
that the division had thrown up, where we laid all night. That night orders 
were received to march early with the greatest secrecy, but we did not move 
until morning, when it was discovered the enemy had evacuated their 
position through the night. As we advanced we found three hnig lines of 
formidable rifle-pits which the enemy had abandoned leaving many tools 
behind. We also found a number of arms, and many prisoners were 
brought in. In this movement the "Bucktails" were posted on the right 
and we on the left as flankers, and at ten o'clock we arrived within sight 
of Williamsport on the upper Potomac. At noon we recommenced our 
march and proceeded to Falling Waters, where we arrived too late to par- 
ticipate in the brush with the enemy. Here our cavalry under Kilpatrick 
overtook the rear guard and captured two guns, several flags and a number 
of prisoners: Lee's army had crossed during the night. 

The pursuit of Lee's army was not yet abandoned, but an attempt was 
made by General Meade to head it off through some of the gaps in the 
mountains to the east of the Shenandoah valley, up which Lee was march- 
ing. The next morning, the 15th, at four o'clock, we commenced our march, 
nearly retracing our steps, passing near Delamont and down the Hagers- 
town pike to the Keedysville road, and halted to make coffee about noon 
on the site of the "Smoketown hospital." Near by was the burial ground 
of the Union dead of Antietam, with a handsome wooden monument erected 
in the centre by the convalescents. We easily recognized the point from 
which we turned into the fields to open the battle of Antietam on the 
afternoon of September 16, 1862. Moving on we crossed the Antietam, 
passed through Keedysville and over South Mountain by the same road we 
came, and encamped near its eastern base. The day was very warm and 



232 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

the march was over a rough and hilly country, in many places the roads 
very muddy, and the distance made being twenty-three miles, the men 
were much fatigued. 

We moved the next morning about five, skirting along the base of the 
mountains through Burkittsville and Petersville and halting about two 
miles from Berlin, encamped in a fine wood about eleven o'clock. The 
next day our wagons came up and the officers got a change of clothing, the 
first they had since leaving Fairfax Station. 

It rained hard all night and through the day of the 17th until four in 
the afternoon when we moved off and crossed the Potomac on a pontoon 
bridge at Berlin, and trod once more the soil of Virginia. Moving on to 
Lovettsville, three miles beyond, we bivouacked near it, being the first in- 
fantry that crossed. 

The next day, the 18th, our regiment was detailed as corps wagon-train 
guard and reached Wheatland at three p. m. On the 19th we marched 
at six in the morning and passing through Purcellville bivouacked in a 
woods at ten o'clock. We passed a number of prisoners belonging "to 
White's Cavalry. Our movements now were rather cautious, as we had 
a large train and the enemy's cavalry were in the neighborhood. 

The next morning we sounded reveille at two o'clock, and moved almost 
over the same ground we did last year under McClellan, passing by Philo- 
mont and our old camps near Uniontown, and encamped about noon on 
Goose creek. Our route laid through a finely-watered and picturesque 
country with fine farms and houses, but all the fences were gone and roads 
blotted out. 

The 21st was spent in camp, the boys occupying their time in writing 
home, bathing and washing clothes. In a stone wall in the meadow in 
front of us, some copperhead snakes were discovered and soon nearly half 
of the division was at work with clubs hunting them, and in an incredibly 
short time the wall was leveled with the ground. 

At two o'clock the next afternoon we marched off over the fields and 
along by-roads to Rectortown and encamped near the Manasses Gap rail- 
road in a heavy woods. On the 23d we formed a field hospital, and left 
our wounded and sick in charge of surgeons and guard, with provisions 
and medicines. Among those left was Sergeant-Ma jor Hiram C. Hos- 
tetter, who died and was buried there. He was a good soldier and ex- 
emplary young man. 

The next day we marched early, keeping along the general course of the 
railroad, passing through Markham, Petersville and Linden. About three 
o'clock we reached the eastern base of the Gap, and soon skirmishing com- 
menced on Wapping Heights, which lasted until nearly dark, when the 
enemy were driven from the Gap. Soon after we moved on past Wapping, 
which consisted of a defunct tavern, an empty store and several shanties, 
and encamped about a half mile beyond. That day we marched twenty- 
five miles. 

Being in the presence of the enemy no "calls" were sounded. The next 
morning we marched up the railroad and moving to the right, formed in 
columns of division and moved in by the right flank and advanced up the 
side of a steep mountain covered with a thick growth of timber and under- 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 23^ 

bi-ush. So steep was it that the field officers were forced to dismount. 
Having reached its base ou the opposite side, the ascent of a still stecpor 
and higher mountain was conjmenced, which required great exertion to 
accomplish, and by the time the command had crossed the men wore com- 
pletely fagged out. The day was excessively hot, several men were over- 
come by the heat, one broke his neck and another was accidently shot 
through the head. A small force of the enemy could have held the mount- 
ains against us as they would have had every advantage. A line of skir- 
mishers properly supported would have been more elfective. Upon arriv- 
ing at the western base, the men were collected and reformed in a little 
valley, and after an hour's rest were marched back and encanip;'d, where 
fresh beef was served out. 

On the 2.3th, Ave sounded reveille at three o'clock and retracing our steps 
for some miles turned to the right following along the foot hills of the 
Blue Mountains, and halting about three in the afternoon, bivouacked. 
The next morning at five o'clock we marched off iu good spirits, passing a 
large number of prisoners near Orleans whom the boys hailed in friendly 
terms. At noon we halted in a clover field about two miles from Warren- 
ton, having made thirteen miles with but one halt of fifteen minutes. 

We had been short of provision for several days, and while we laid 
here General Crawford was saluted by his hungry boys with the cry of 
"crackers" as he passed by. This annoyed him and he rode over to General 
Meade and demanded rations. "Why my dear General," he replied, "you 
should not let that annoy you. One night at White Plains, where I 
marched the boys a couple of miles out of the road, they actually called me 
a 'four-eyed old devil,' but upon my soul I could not get mad at them." 

Towards dark we got into niotion and marched six miles, passing to 
the west of AVarrenton we bivouacked in a low open field, where we were 
annoyed for the first time during the war by mosquitoes. The next morn- 
ing we sounded no reveille, but woke the men up eai'ly and marched 
towards Fayetteville, near which we halted at eight in the morning for the 
day and night. On the 28th we moved about two miles to a new position 
where we laid until August 1st spending one day on picket. While here 
First Lieutenant John Taylor, commanding Company E, was appointed 
an aide-de-camp on Colonel McCandless' staff. Considerable cannonading 
was heard towards Warrenton Springs, our cavalry skirmishing with the 
enemy . 

From there we moved to Rappahannock Station where we formed a 
regular encampment, and the Gettysburg campaign closed. 

For ten days prior to this, we had been almost every night upon the 
march not getting far from our original starting point. The clink of tin 
cups on the bayonets and the rumbling of artillery wagons was continu- 
ally heard. At every stopping place orders were issued to lay out our 
camps regularly, dig sinks and build bough arbors over our tents. Orders 
were issued that the army would be supplied with knapsacks in which we 
were expected to carry a large number of light rations and extra rounds 
of ammunition. Troops were continually arriving from a short distance 
up the railroad. These movements impressed the enemy with the idea 



234 Pennsylvania at (jleftijsbiirg. 

we were beiu? heavily reinforced and intended moving towards Richmond, 
when in fact hirge numbers of troops were being secretly sent to cM'tain 
points in the Northern States. 



DEDICATI(3N OF MONUMENT 

34™ REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

(Fifth Reservks) 
^^TTTHEN the army under Hooker marched on the Gettysburg campaign, 
\/\/ the Fifth Regiment, together with the brigade commanded by 
Colonel Fisher, was ordered to join it, and was assigned to the 
Fifth Corps, General Meade, subsequently General Sykes. Upon its ar- 
rival on the field, the brigade was for a time held in reserve in the vicinity 
of Little Round Top. The rebels had discovered that this eminence was 
the key to the Union position, and were struggling hard to gain possession. 
The Third Brigade, First Division, P"'ifth Corps, under command of Col 
onel Vincent, of the Eighty-third Pennsylvania, had been ordered to move on 
the double-quick and occupy it. Scarcely had. Vincent reached the crest and 
taken position, when Hood's Division of Longstreet's Corps, in three lines, 
came rushing on with deafening yells, determined to possess the coveted 
prize. With the energy of desperation they struggled to clear the rugged 
sides and carry the heights. Failing upon the left and front, they poured 
through the little valley between Round Top and Little Round Top, doub- 
ling up the left flank of Vincent, occupied by the Twentieth Maine Infantry 
and threatened the rear. For some time possession seemed doubtful. At 
this critical moment Colonel Fisher was ordered to advance with the Fifth, 
Lieut. -Colonel Dare, and the Twelfth, Colonel Hardin, to the relief of the 
hard-pressed and well nigh cru.shed brigade. With a cheer that sounded 
above the clangor of battle, sending gladness to friend and terror to foe, 
the command went forward at double-quick, dashing up the hill and gaining 
the summit in time to share in the victory, arid to render its possession 
secure. During the night these regiments were advanced to the summit 
of Round Top, and the two hills were joined by a strong line of breast- 
works, constructed of loose boulders, and the position made amply secure." 

"Organized at Hariisbm-R Aufjusl 17. 1S61, to serve three years. It was mustered out 
.Tune 13, 1S6+, liy rcrtsnii of expiration of term of service. 



Pcniisi/lrailid (il (Ictfi/sliiirf/. 2155 



l)El)lCATION OF .AIONUMENT 

35™ REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

(Sixth Reserves) 
September 2, 1890 
ADDRESS OF PRIVATE HALSEY LATHROP 

COMRADES of tilt' Sixth I'ciiiisylvania Reserves:— We liiive assembled 
on this historic battletiekl to dedicate this monument, erected by a 
grateful Commonwealth, in eonuuemoration of your services as de- 
fenders of your country, generally, ))ut especially your services on the battle- 
field of Gettysburg. 

There are two matters of regret connected with these dedicatory ser- 
vices. First, that one better qualified has not been choseu as orator, and 
second, that more of the survivors of the old regiment are not here 
to participate in these services. 

I am no orator; I am but a plain, blunt man. I can only speak right on, 
to tell you those things that you yourselves know — point to the record you 
have nuule, and let it speak for me. 

In considering what might be appropriate to say on this occasion, my 
mind went back to the 27th day of July, 1861, when the one thousand 
men and boys (for many of us were mere boys) stood up and subscribed 
to that oath which transformed them from State militia to volunteer sol- 
diers of the United States army. The memories of the three years' cam- 
paign of that regiment came up, and in my mind I followed them, first, 
to Tennallytown where we built that magnificent fort and named it after 
(jur own State. It stands to-day a monument of your industry and skill. 
Then, just as we were congratulating ourselves on its completion, and con- 
templating the ease with which we could repel any force that might come 
against us, we were moved across the Potomac, where, at Langley's X 
Roads wc established Camp Pierpoint, where we entered upon that system 
of drilling which would fit us for the arduous duties that awaited us, 
and from which we sallied forth on the various foraging expeditions, one 
of which occurred December 20, 1861, and resulted in the battle of Dranes- 
ville, where you, with the other regiments of the brigade, achieved the 
first victory for any part of the Army of the Potomac. 

Comrades, I will not take the time to j)articularize, as I mention your 
various movements — your minds will readily fill in the details. The mem- 
ories of the knapsack and other drills you underwent, and especially of the 
battle of Dranesville, where you received your baptism of fire, no doubt 
clings to you with greater tenacity than even the mud of Peirpoint. You 
could not forget if you would, and I venture to say, would not if you could, 
the breaking uj) of Camp Pierpoint, March 10, 1862, and your march to 
Hunter's Mills and return to camp, near Ale.vandria, better known as 

♦Organized at Harrisburg iu .Tuiip, ISGl, to servo tlireo years. It was iiiustereil eiit 
June 11, 1864, liy reason of e.\piiation of seivice. 



236 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

Smoky Hollow; then your advance towards Manassas, and how easily you 
took that stronghold of the enemy; then, after a few days, your march down 
the railroad to Catlett's Station. Oh, how hot it was! and how we did 
unload those terrible knapsacks. 

A few days later found us encamped on the banks of the Rappahannock, 
at Falmouth, where we vied with each other in fixing up the picturesque 
quarters which we occupied during most of the month of May. 

On June 10, just three months after we broke camp at Pierpoint, we 
boarded transports for a voyage down the Rappahannock, up to the York and 
Pamunkey rivers to White House Landing, where our regiment was left 
to guard the base of supplies for McCellan's army, which was ens^aged 
in the Peninsular campaign, which ended with the seven days' fight. About 
this time an eagle flew into a battery of United States artillery and lit on 
the shoulders of Lieutenant William Sinclair, and then it was Colonel Sin- 
clair, of the Sixth Pennsylvania Reserves, who, with his family, we are 
glad to see with us to-day. 

You, no doubt, remember the beef you confiscated while there, the fort 
you built and what you named it, and how rapidly you evacuated your 
position at Tunstall's Station and marched to White House Landing, where 
we again took transports for an excursion down the Pamunkey and York 
rivers, and where we met the Army of the Potomac returning from its 
unsuccessful attempt to take Richmond, who, when they knew that the 
Sixth Pennsylvania had arrived "thanked God and took courage." 
Perhaps some of you have forgotten the chickens, pigs, etc., captured 
when you would go on picket, on the south side of the river ; but you 
should not be too severely censured, for the beef we drew was so tainted 
with garlic that we could not eat it. Mush and milk was not very plenty, 
and even if we got the latter, behold the garlic was there too! 

After laying there a little over a month, we descended the James, crossed 
the Chesapeake Bay, ascended the Potomac, landed at Aquia Creek Land- 
ing and took up our march for Fredericksburg, encamping near the spot 
where we had broken camp about three months before. But we did not 
long remain inactive. The situation of affairs demanded action. The rebel 
army was marching northward, so the campaign commenced which resulted 
in what is sometimes called the disaster of Second Bull Run. 

I need not stop to discuss this battle or its results, enough to know that 
the Sixth Pennsylvania Reserves faithfully and gallantly discharged every 
duty that was imposed upon them, and if you did not come off from that 
ill-fated field with flying colors it was because the flag-staff had been 
broken by a missile from the enemy; but "our flag was still there." 

A few days later found you at Arlington Heights, with terribly diminished 
ranks, but full of hope and determination for the future. The rebels, 
flushed with victory, still pursued their northward way. Now came, the 
march through Maryland and Virginia, passing through a country tliat 
had not been devastated by the ruthless hand of war. We found rails 
were plenty, chickens did not roost so high as in Virginia, peaches, apples 
and other fruit were in a most desirable condition as to quality and quan- 
tity. Of course orders against foraging were very strict, and of course 
you strictly obeyed those orders (?) You no doubt remember the orders. 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshur^. 237 

to only take the top rail of the fence. This order you strictly compiled 
with, though if often happened that so many had preceded you at the 
fence that the bottom rail was the top one. 

Sunday morning, September 14, 1862, found you encamped on the banks 
of the Monocacy, near Frederick City, Maryland, with orders to "move 
forward." You had taken a refreshing bath in the creek the night before, 
and some of you even went so far as to put on a clean shirt. But I will 
venture to say that a whole lot more of you failed to make this change, 
because of a lack of that very desirable article. You were thinking how 
perfectly lovely it would be to attend church in Frederick this beautiful 
Sabbath day, but, alas I you were under contract for the magnificent sum 
of thirteen dollars a month to obey orders, though you perish in the at- 
tempt. The orders were, "forward march!" and that order held good until 
the order to "halt!" was given. The order to "halt," was given by the 
enemy's guns on South Mountain, but, not recognizing their authority, 
you pushed forward, and ere that Sabbath sun had set behind the we«:tern 
hills your flag floated in triumph from the summit of South Mountain, 
while the enemy, who had so stubbornly resisted your ascent of the 
mountain, were very rapidly descending the opposite slope. But I must 
stop right here and go to the rear, for one of my legs went on a strike 
just as we reached the mountain top, hence your subsequent movements, 
until you arrived at Fredericksburg, are unknown to me from personal 
observation. But I am assured that at Antietam, three days later, you 
nobly played your part. Of your return march, through Virginia, I will 
not speak. At Fredericksburg you made a record that you can point 
to with pride, and had the adjoining division and those who should have 
supported you, properly seconded your efforts the history of Fredericks- 
burg would have read differently from what it does. 

History records how gallantly you charged across that open field, swept 
by the enemy's fire — ^took an advanced position and stubbornly held it 
until all hope of reinforcements had vanished, when, with ammunition 
nearly gone, you yielded to overwhelming numbers and sullenly retired 
to your original position. Again your humble servant was knocked out 
just as the long-looked-for reinforcements arrived, and so I must necessarily 
pass over your return to the vicinity of Washington where you remained 
until the second attempt of the rebels to invade the Northern States, which 
resulted in the battle of Gettysburg. But I know you were rejoiced when 
you knew you received the order to march, when you knew you were to 
again join the Army of the Potomac in its attempt to repel the advancing 
hosts of Lee. 

Your next meeting of the enemy, in hostile array, was at New Hope 
Church, on the Mine Run campaign the latter part of November, 186.3 (if 
we omit the little difficulty at Bristoe Station where, if memory serves 
me, we did not play an important part), where your gallantry in deploying 
as skirmishers, under a withering fire from the enemy, called forth, as it 
deserved, the compliments of the commander of the forces there, and ex- 
cited the admiration of all who beheld it; and in fact, boys, we felt a 
little proud of it ourselves. Our advance through that tangled second 
growth of pine and cedar, in the face of stubborn resistence from the 



2o8 Pcinisi/lrdiiid at (icfli/sftiirji. 

cneiii.v, yuu must remomlxT well. Thnt night, upnu the skinnish line 
in the immediate presence of the enemy, without sin opportunity of nifking 
our usual cup of coffee, was one of the episodes of active campaigning. 
How cheerfully we yielded our position on the skirmish line in the morn- 
ing, to our relief, and with what enthusiasm we engaged in the manu- 
facture of a cup of coffee as soon as opportunity presented itself. Then 
up and away for the main body of tlH> Army of the Potomac, from which 
our brigade had b<>en separated, for a short time, while on a scout with 
(iregg's division of cavalry. We found them on the banks of ^line Run, 
confronted by Lee's army, strongly fortified in a naturally strong position, 
and preparing for what bade fair to be the most desperate battle of the 
war. The contemplated charge was not made and we returned to winter 
(luarters, near Bristoe Station and Broad Run. Your record in the Wilder- 
ness in IMa.\', 1S64, is one of 

"Picket line and battle fray. 
And weary marching night anil day." 

gloriously winding up your three years' term of service. May 30, 1864, at 
Bethesda Church, where you probably killed more rebels in one hour than 
you killed in any one battle in which you were engaged. 

May 30, you bade your comrades, who re-enlisted and who were to 
continue in the service with the One hundred and ninety-first Pennsylvania 
Volunteers, farewell, taking with you the glorious old flag that Governor 
Curtin had given you at Tennallytown in 1861, faded and battle-torn 
to be surCi but no stripes missing, and its stars all there. You returned 
it to Harrisburg, where you can see it to-day, a silent but eloquent testi- 
monial of your service in the war for the preservation of the Union. 

Thus, comrades, I have briefly spoken of what is a tithe of your service 
in putting down the rebellion. I have not spoken of the terrible losses 
you sustained in the battles I have mentioned. That is the sad side of 
the picture. Y'our heroic dead lie on every battlefield on which you were 
engaged. 

Suppose we could see arrayed in line before us now, the old regiment 
of 1861, only with places vacant where should stand those who lost their 
lives in battle and died of disease during the war. What a spectacle it 
would present I Then let the survivors appear in their present condi- 
tion — what a change! Truly, we would say with the old song 

"The boys in blue are growing gray. 

Thin grows our ranks and thinner; 
We've faced Death's battle many a day, 
Bnt Death to-day is winner." 

And how many empty sleeves and missing legs? Those strong, athletic 
forms have become bowt'd by i)remature old aue. The hardship of soldier 
life in camp, battle and prison i)eii, has done its work. But we must not 
pause to contemplate, lest we l)e overcome with emotion. While we -Irop 
a tear to the memory of the dead, let us dedicate this monument to the 
living. So remove the drapery and let there appear the record of your 
services and your losses. Yes, cut the strings so that all who behold may 



Pcniisijli'aiiia at Grffijshiinj. 239 

see what the Sixth Pennsylvania Reserves suffered, that the "government 
of the people, by the people, and for the people, might not perish from the 
earth." 



ADDRESS UE^ COLONEI. H. B. McKEAN. 

C(>MRAI)ES: You have met to-day <>n this liemic battletield to per- 
form a most interesting ceremony. The place where more than a 
quarter of a century ago the most terrific battle was fought that has 
been recorded in history. Allow me to congratulate you, my comrades, 
that you were members of that grand old regiment — the Si.xth Pennsyl- 
vania Reserves. 

Its officers and men were courageous in battle and courteous in civil life. 
Your timely arrival of Washington, D. C, with the other regiments of 
the Pennsylvania Reserves, immediately after the first battle of Bidl Run, 
in 1861, saved the Capital. The Third Brigade of the Pennsylvania Re- 
serve Corps, consisting of four regiments, was a grand body of men, com 
manded by that grand soldier. General E. O. C. Ord, who was made the 
first major-general of the brigade. Commanders (ienerals George G. 
Meade, J. F. Reynolds and Ord, you know were in the first successful 
engagements pf the Army of the Potomac. At Dranesville, Va., December 
20, 1861, Captain Ent, commander of a company in the Si.xth Regiment, 
fired the first shot, his company acting as skirmishers. 

The Sixth made the first charge, then ordered by General Ord to charge 
the Confederate battery under the command of the "Little Adjutant." 
How well you obeyed the order, capturing the battery and several prisoners. 

Your loss was slight — two killed and a number wounded. Among the 
wounded were Captain Bradbury and Halsey Lathrop. That was your 
first baptism of fire. 

Comrades, the great State of Pennsylvania has erected this granite 
monument to perpetuate the heroism of the members of the Sixth Regi- 
ment on this field of battle. A grateful people remember your heroic deeds 
here on that hot day, July 2, 1863. You with the other regiments of the 
Pennsylvania Reserves, Third Division, Fifth Corps, arriving on the 
north side of yonder Little Round Top, charging the advancing Confed- 
erates and driving them back to the point where this monument stands. 
You held it as ycju always did, saving from capture Little Round Top and 
the field. During the three years of service you were in all the principal 
engagements of the Army of the Potomac — the first in and the last out. 

Comrades, your military history is written in letters of gold so high on 
the tablet of fame that no one can erase it, and my congratulations shall 
be; Brave in battle, chivalrous in peace and heroic in every trait that de- 
velops true manhood. 



24:0 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



ADDRESS OF MAJOR W. H. H. GORE. 

COMRADES:— The history made by the Sixth Regiment you helped 
make, and are as familiar with it as I am. What I say here, or 
what we do here, will not alter the facts as they are handed down 
to future generations by the historian. I propose, on account of time, to 
give but a brief history of the regiment: 

Organized as it was, from companies recruited from the three months' 
service, the companies were all recruited in the month of April, 1861, and 
consisted of two companies from Bradford, one each from Tioga, Susque- 
hanna, Wayne, Columbia, Montour, Snyder, Dauphin and Franklin coun- 
ties. Owing to the call being filled they remained in Camp Curtin until 
after the passage of the act creating the Pennsylvania Reserves, when they 
were organized into the Sixth Regiment, with W. W. Ricketts, colonel; 
W. M. Penrose, lieutenant-colonel; H. J. Madill, major; H. B. McKean, 
adjutant; R. H. McCoy, quartermaster; Charles Bower, surgeon, and Z. 
Ring Jones, assistant surgeon. They were sent to Greencastle and placed 
in a camp of instruction under Major Harshberger as instructor. After 
the disastrous battle of Bull Run, a call was made on Governor Cartin 
for troops, and the Reserves were rushed to Washington ; the Sixth was 
the first regiment to arrive and was mustered into the United States ser- 
vice July 27, 1861, and sent to Tennallytown, D. C. While in this camp 
over one-half of the regiment was stricken with typhoid-fever, greatly 
retarding the efficiency of the regiment. While in this camp the Reserves 
were formed in three brigades, the Sixth with the Ninth, Tenth and Twelfth 
formed the Third Brigade. October 9, 1861, the division was moved across 
the river into Virginia and went into camp near Langley. 

December 20, the Third Brigade and the First Rifles fought the battle 
of Dranesville — gained the first victory for the Army of the Potomac. 

IMarch 16, 1862, they broke camp and marched to the victory of Hunter's 
Mills, then back to Alexandria. In the meantime Colonel Ricketts and 
Ijieutenant-Colonel Penrose had resigned and their places were filled by 
William Sinclair as colonel and H. B. McKean, lieutenant-colonel. The 
quartermaster also resigned and A. A. Scudder Avas appointed. 

The division was attached to McDowell's Corps, and in April marched 
to Manassas, Catlett's Station, thence to Fredericksburg. In June they 
were on transports and went down the Rappahannock, up the York and 
Pamunkey rivers to White House and attached to the Fifth Army Corps. 
The Sixth was halted at Tunstall's Station to guard the road and keep 
open the communication with the front. While here Colonel Sinclair 
joined us and assumed command ; the left wing of the regiment was sent 
to White House to guard the stores ; the Seven Days' battle opened at 
Mechanicsville, and the regiment was cut off from the main army, and 
after destroying the vast accumulation of stores, was taken by boat, via 
Fortress Monroe and James river, to Harrison's Landing, where they 
were joined by the balance of the division. The Sixth Regiment was here 



Pennsylvania at GcUijshurg. 241 

transferred to the First Brigade which now consisted of the First, Second, 
Sixth, Ninth and Bucktails. 

The next move was by boat from Harrison's Landing to Aquia Creek, 
thence by rail to Fredericksburg, thence by way of Kelly's Ford to War- 
ren ton, where they joined Pope's army and took an active part in the. 
battle of Second Bull Run. Falling back with the army to Washington 
they marched through Maryland to South Mountain, and in that battle 
was on the extreme right of the army, and was attached to the First 
Corps; at this battle and Antietam the regiment met with severe loss, 
especially in officers. Major Madill was now promoted to the colonelcy of 
the One hundred and forty-first Pennsylvania Volunteers, and Captain Ent 
was promoted to major. 

In November the march was again resumed, ending at Fredericksburg, 
where, on the 13th of December, the regiment, in connection with the 
balance of the Reserves, made the most gallant charge of the war. Had I 
time I would say more about this battle, but I will pass it by leaving to 
future historians to give us the honors that we that day earned. 

Our losses here were greater than any other battle we ever fought ; 
we were but a handful left for duty, and the Reserves were ordered to 
Washington and vicinity to rest and recruit, the Sixth was sent to Fairfax 
Station, where it remained until June, 1863, when it again joined the 
army — was attached to the Fifth Corps and marched for this historic 
field; and here, on this ground, where we are dedicating this monument, 
we aided in fighting the battle of Gettysburg. Moving with the Army of 
the Potomac, marching and skirmishing, we finally went into winter quar- 
ters at Bristoe Station. In the meantime Colonel Sinclair had resigned 
and field ofiicers were filled by promoting Ent to colonel, Dixon to lieutenant- 
colonel and Gore to major. 

In the spring of 1864, they took in all the fighting under General Grant, 
through the Wilderne.ss, Spotsylvania, North Anna river to Bethesda 
Church, doing their full share of the work in that arduous campaign, end- 
ing their service with brilliant victory at Bethesda Church. 

And now, comrades, I have briefly sketched the history of your regiment, 
its marches and hardships, its gallant fighting; it never disgraced itself; 
there were other regiments as good as yours, but none better. We have 
met here to-day to dedicate this shaft as a monument of your valor, but 
your history will be a monument that will last as long as the American 
nation exists, and until after those stones shall have crumbled into dust. 



242 Pciuisijlvcniki at Gcttjjshuig. 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

38'^^H REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

(Ninth Reserves) 
September 11, 1889 
ADDRESS OF FIRST LIEUTENANT ELL. TORRANCE 

COMRADES of the Ninth Regiment Pennsylvania Reserves: — We have 
met upon historic ground, ground as sacred as our feet will ever tread. 
Fur more than one hundred years Lexington and Bunker Hill have 
sent forth a resplendent light to all lovers of liberty, but to us and our 
children at least, nothing can eclipse this field of glory. 

More than a quarter of a century has passed away since we last stood 
here. Then angry clouds himg over our heads, and the ground was con- 
vulsed under our feet with the shock of battle, but to-day the skies are 
peaceful, and the sounds of war have ceased to reverberate among these 
hills. 

We have met upon a most auspicious or-casion, and for a purpose which 
falls only to the lot of patriots. I am not insensible to the honor you 
have conferred upon me. Having for more than a score of years resided 
in a distant Commonwealth, and never having had the privilege of meet- 
ing with you since the close of the war, it gives ms inexpressible pleasure 
to again return to my native State, and once more look into your faces 
and bring to and receive from you fraternal greetings. At such a time 
and place as this, how inade<iuate is language tn frame our thoughts, or 
give expression to the emotions of our hearts. 

This monument, which we to-day dedicate, though beautiful in its pro- 
portions and workmanship, is of little intrinsic value, but who can esti- 
mate what it cost to lay the foundations for its erection. As we look 
upon it we see and read much more than the simple and appropriate 
inscriptions it bears. It represents great sacrifices — sacrifices so great 
that they cannot be computed — sacrifices, the cost of which lies outside 
the domain of any arithmetic. It represents the scattered graves of our 
comrades who died in defense of their country. As we stand here our 
memories are quickened and our vision enlarged, so that we look back 
through the intervening years, as if it were but yesterday, when we parted 
company forever with our comrades, who, on the field of battle, paid the 
full measure of their devotion with their lives. We have grown old since 
then, but their faces are unchanged. Many of them sleep in unknown 
graves that loving feet have never yet been able to find, but they are not 
forgotten, and as we look upon this polished shaft, we can, underneath its 
shining surface, read the names of every one. 

True men they fell; and faithful to the last, 

Though overpowered by death, yet still in death unconquered, 

Forever sacred be their memories, 

And imperishable, their heroic names. 



*Organized in Allegheny Co., July 27, 1S61, to serve three years. It was mustered out 
May 12, lS64,by reason of expiration of term of service. 



Pennsijlvdiiid at (Irtl ijsbiir;/. 24.S 

History records no saorifices moro sublime thau that of the dead of the 
volunteer armies of the Uuited States, and this monument will bear per- 
petual testimony to their devotion to a cause which they loved better than 
their lives. 

It stands not only for the dead, but the living as well, quickening their 
sense of duty, stimulating their patriotism, and making it impossible that 
the memory of such sacrifices should perish from the hearts of men. 

It will stand hmg after we have passed away, to speak with a persuasive 
voice to generations yet luiborn, educating them in all that pertains to the 
safety, prosperity, and perpetuity of our country, and inspiring them with 
an exalted patriotism, and an unflinching courage in the defense of her 
institutions. 

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has acted wisely in providing for 
the erection of these monuments and setting apart this day for their 
dedication, and in calling together her sons to bear witness to the solemn 
and impressive services. Upon this loyal soil the defiant army of tre;',son, 
under General Lee, was defeated. Around the base of these Round Tops, 
and upon the slopes of Cemetery and Culp's Hills, broke the topmost wave 
of the great Rebellion. The beginning of the end was Gettysburg, and 
from the 4th day of July, 1863, the friends of liberty were confident of 
triumphant victory. Eighteen States were represented in the Army of the 
Potomac upon this famous field, and most appropriately we find the Key- 
stone State, in the person of her soldiers, everywhere present in the fore- 
front of the battle, from its commencement to its close. During those 
three memorable days her voice wa.s never silent, and through cannon, 
musket and sabre, she spolce in defense of human rights and constitu- 
tional law with a power and eloquence that time will only glorify. Behold 
her three score and ten regiments of infantry, in battle array, stretching 
from right to center and from center to left. See those lines of blue, 
with banners unfurled, steady and luidismayed, in the whirlwind of s'rife. 
Listen to the thunder of her cannon as they answer the l)razeii mouth 
of treason. Hear the shai-p clash of sabre as her squadrons ride down to 
death the ruthless invader. Well may our beloved State glory in the 
record made by her chivalrous sons, and perpetuate, not only in bronze and 
marble, but in the hearts of her children, their deeds of valor and saci'ifice. 
As we look around us to-day, we are conscious that one thing yet remains 
to be done by the State of Pennsylvania — one duty is yet unperformed, and 
that is the erection upon this battle-field of a suitable monument to our 
illustrious and distinguished commander. General (Jeorge G. Meade, and 
until that is done, the anthems of praise that continually ascend from 
these hills will never reach their sweetest and most complete harmony. 
General ^Nleade conunanded the Army of the Potomac for almost two years, 
or about oiu'-half the period of its entire existence. He was a brave snldiei' 
and a true gentleman. His patriotism was of the highest and i)urest type, 
and he was trusted and lu'loved by the <>ntire army. He gave to his 
country, in her liour of peril, his best services, with a willing heart, and 
with rare courage and patience did he bear the heavy responsibilities that 
were placed upon him. ( )n the soil of liis nativ(> state he won undying 



244 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

fame, and upon this "field of monuments," made forever sacred by the 
blood of so many of his soldiers, should be erected to his memory, a 
monument that would bind together, and be the Keystone of them all. 
And with the name of Meade must forever stand associated the name of 
that magnificent soldier and Pennsylvanian, General John F. Reynolds, who 
laid down his life, as a morning sacrifice, at the very opening of the battle. 
These two names are inseparable and their fame is imperishable. Their 
first commands were composed of a part of the Pennsylvania Reserves, 
and their military glory we claim as a part of our own peculiar inherit- 
ance . 

But time will not permit me to speak of Geary on the right, of Hancock 
in the center, of Crawford on the left and of the host of brave men who 
filled the gaps between. 

As we withdraw our thoughts from the past and turn our faces toward 
the future we behold a pleasing prospect. We feel assured that in the 
providence of God this country is destined to occupy a pre-eminent place 
among the nations of the earth. This year marks the completion of our 
first century of constitutional liberty, and within no other period of the 
world's history has such progress been made in all that pertains to the 
highest civilization of man. We are amazed when we contemplate the- 
rapidity and solidity of the growth of this republic. There is no halting 
in her onward march. Each generation pushes rapidly forward and takes 
a higher place than the one occupied by its predecessor. 

Education has opened wide the door of hope and usefulness to all classes 
and conditions of men, and liberty has widened her domain, until, under 
the protecting folds of the Stars and Stripes, representatives of all na- 
tionalities, races and civilizations, dwell together as free men, and you look 
in vain for serf or slave. 

Behold this nation of American Freemen! No titled nobility, but in its 
place the true nobility of manhood and womanhood. For regal splendor 
and the moated castle is substituted the quiet home with its hearth-stone, 
and the virtues and sturdy patriotism of the common people. 

It is not our rulers that have made this country great — they are our 
servants — but the people themselves, who, each in his day and generation, 
well and faithfully performs his allotted task. 

As we have been inspired by the example of our God-fearing, liberty- 
loving and self-sacrificing forefathers, and have been able in the hour of 
trial to stand the supreme test of loyalty to our country, so will the gen- 
erations that follow us take new inspiration as they look upon this b.attle- 
field of monuments, and listen to the voice that comes in one mighty chorus 
from the countless graves of the loyal dead, imploring them to be true to the 
trust committed to their keeping. 

Tremendous was the price we paid for an unbroken Union, but it was 
worth all it cost, for who can foretell the position of power, honor and 
usefulness to which the nation maj' attain. Those who gave their ]ives 
that the country might live did so without a murmur or regret. 

Those of us who survive enjoy the consciousness of duty done. We are 
content with the record as it stands, and have high hope for the future. 
It will not be long until our work is ended and we shall finally be mustered 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 245 

out to join the mighty host that has preceded us. Soon we also shall sleep 
in the majesty of eternal repose, but we shall in our latest hours be sus- 
tained by an unfaltering trust in the stability of our institutions and in the 
continued prosperity and welfare of our beloved country. 



ADDRESS OF CAPTAIN ROBERT TAGGART. 

COMRADES:— The Legislature of our State, during the session of 1886 
and 1887, passed au act appropriating certain public moneys to be 
expended in the erection of memorials or monuments with which to 
mark the positions occupied by Pennsylvania Commands on this battlefield. 
A Commission, composed of leading and intelligent citizens in full sym- 
pathy with the spirit of the act, was appointed to carry out its provisions. 

It is well known that the members of this Commission, individually and 
collectively, have devoted much time and careful study to the discharge 
of the duties imposed on them ; and yet, their actions in some instances 
have been severely criticised. But this is not surprising when we reflect 
that, in the line of their duty, they have been called upon to decide iiues- 
tions as to the locations of regiments, and other details of the battle, 
about which, in most cases, they could know nothing personally, and in 
the decision of which they were confronted with conflicting testimony — 
on the one hand that of individuals based solely on memory, and on the 
other, the published reports of the battle made at, or immediately after 
its occurrence. No doubt, in the excitement incident to the engagement, 
or, possibly, through a desire to appropriate to themselves and those 'iuder 
them, at least a full share of the honors of victory, some of the brigade 
and regimental commanders may have exceeded the bounds of accurate 
knowledge in making out their reports. But, at this late day, these re- 
ports, in the absence of positive evidence of their inaccuracy, should be 
accepted in preference to mere statments which may have percolated 
through twenty-five years of treacherous memory, and, doubtless, absorbed 
much of the prejudice or partiality of the minds through which they passed. 
The Commission seems to have been governed by this view of the matter ; 
and, while their actions in some cases may have created dissatisfaction 
on the part of a few, it will be generally conceded that they have acted 
faithfully, intelligently and impartially in the discharge of their delicate 
and responsible duties, and, I believe, in the end, it will be acknowledged 
by all who desire to preserve intact the history of this battle, that so 
much of the act providing for the erection of these memorials as requires 
that all important details shall be subject to the in.spection and approval 
of the Commission, is a wise and an important provision — one which has 
shielded the work from much inaccurate and discordant proclamation, and 
imparted to it something of true historic value. 

I refer to this matter for the reason that certain of the regimental com- 
mittees of the "Reserve Corps" — our own included — have had some discus- 

17 



246 Pennsylvania at Gettysbwg. 

sion, if not controversy, with the Commission touching the matter of con- 
solidating the appropriations to which the respective organizations are enti- 
tled, for the purpose of erecting a single memorial building. You will re- 
member that, at the reunion held in New Brighton two years ago, the 
committee then and there appointed was instructed, if practicable, to join 
with the committees of other regiments of the corps in the erection of a 
division memorial ; or, failing in that, to proceed and erect a regimental 
monument. Your committee made an honest effort to meet your preference 
in this matter ; but, after a careful study of the question in all its bear- 
ings, found they could not do so and avaU themselves of the State appro- 
priation. This conclusion was arrived at by the State Commission, was sus- 
tained by the Attorney-General of the State, and reluctantly accepted by 
your committee as the ultimatum for their guidance. And now, having 
completed the work assigned us, you have been invited to meet here to-day, 
and I have been requested, in behalf of the committee, to make formal 
presentation of this monument to you. 

In discharging the duty which the partiality of my comrades has assigned 
me, I am well aware there are many channels in which our thoughts might 
be led with propriety and profit; but I feel that our presence here, or aught 
that we might say or do, would be but empty nothingness did we fail to 
grasp the true significance of this occasion. And what is this? If there 
is one more than another that we should learn as a lesson of the civil 
war, of which the battle fought here was the decisive conflict, it is that 
God reigns and holds within His hands the destinies of nations and of 
worlds, whilst we. His creatures, are but instruments whereby His power 
is manifest and purpose wrought. If we seek His guidance and follow 
His appointed ways we hfive assurance that He will not forsake us ; but 
if we strive to build a Babel tower to mock His sovereign will, there are 
a thousand ways whereby confusion and disaster may set at naught our 
mightiest human efforts. 

That "Man of destiny" — so called — whose meteoric rise from a humble 
station to an empire's throne so astonished and dazzled the world but a 
century ago, exemplified in his brief career the blasphemy of his own lips' 
utterance when he declared that "Providence is always on the side of the 
heaviest battalions." 

In a burst of confidence he unfolded to one of the favorites of his court, 
the plan of a campaign on v/hich he was about to enter, and spoke with 
arrogance of certain victory. Being reminded that man might propose, 
but that God disposes, he replied "I propose and I also dispose." Within 
a twelvemonth more than one-half of that grand army of five hundred thou- 
sand men with which he invaded Russia had fallen victims to the casualties 
of battle or exposures of the march, whilst he, in advance of his retreating 
columns, was hurrying back to transfer the tidings of disaster to hopeful 
and expectant France ; and within two years thereafter the "vain froward 
child of empire'" was an exile, shorn of power and fretting his life away on 
a barren isle. 

From the time that the stripling son of Jesse, with but sling and smooth 
stones gathered from the brook, went forth, in the name of Israel's God, 
to meet and vanquish the boasting giant mailed in brass and armed with 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 247 

sword and speai* and shield, on to the time when the little army of the 
Athenian and Plateau patriots, chanting their battle-hymn along the 
mountain slopes of their native land, bore down in triumph on the invad- 
ing hosts, ten times their number, of Mede and Persia, down through 
the ages to the time when our fathers, untrained and untried in the art 
of war, achieved their independence — through all these centuries history's 
pages are written over with refutations unmistakable and conclusive of 
the Napoleonic blasphemy, and abound in recorded triumphs of men and 
nations engaged in seemingly hopeless though righteous endeavors. 

From the sacred aisles of old "St. John's" in Richmond, there comes to 
us through more than a century of years, the echoings of that sentiment 
which filled our fathers' hearts with hope and nerved their arms to action. 
Trusting not iu their human strength, or martial skill or powess, but in 
firm reliance on the God of nations, they went forth to battle in a righteous 
cause, whilst one was chosen as their leader of whom it has been truly 
said "belief in God and trust in an overruling power formed the essence 
of his character." 

We speak of Gettysburg as the most important battle of the civil war, in 
that secession here received its fatal wound. A wound from which it 
lingered, by virtue only of inherent force and courage in the hearts of 
those who listened to its siren voice and followed its deceptive banner. And 
we glory in the fact that he who led us on to victory here received his 
first promotion as one of our brigade commanders — one whom we had 
learned to love and honor for his patriotic virtues, his martial skill and 
manly courage. Does it not increase our admiration for General Meade, 
to know that, as commander, he counselled all his soldiers to reliance on an 
all-controlling Providence, and that in the hour of triumph he gave to God 
all thanks for victory? 

Then, comrades, as we unveil this monument which speaks of the great 
event enacted here in years gone by, let us not exalt the human effort 
that gave to Gettysburg renown, above the cause and vital principles which 
were at issue in the contest ; and above all let us not forget to acknowledge 
with becoming reverence the favor of the God of nations which gave to 
us the victory. 

In giving special prominence to such thoughts and feelings, it does not 
fall on us that we should ignore the personal efforts, or lightly estimate 
the personal sacrifies that are interwoven with the history of the war. 

It was our privilege to belong to a regiment which took part in the battle 
fought here, and to-day we have assembled to dedicate this monument, 
wrought from imperishable granite and erected on the spot where, more 
than a quarter of a centui-y ago, we contended for what we then be- 
lieved, for what the lapse of time, the logic of events and the just verdict 
of mankind have since demonstrated to be right. 

It is a grand thought and glorious feeling to know that in great emer- 
gencies of life or of history we have had the privilege and embraced the 
opportunity of contending in a righteous cause. For the world's great 
crises are numbered not at stated intervals or by the changing years, but 
are born of epochs often hoary with the frosts of centuries, and to realize 
that we have been, though humble, actors in such a crisis is something that 
comes not in the course of every human life. 



248 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

The battle fought here during those memorable July days of 1863, was 
one of many in a more than four-years' contest between the North and 
South of our land, which has been aptly described by the lamented and 
martyred Lincoln as a test of the endurance of human government based 
on the equality of man. In that marvellous epic delivered by him at the 
dedication of the Cemetery on yonder heights, November, 1863, he made use 
of this language. 

"Fourscore and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this con- 
tinent a new nation — conceived in liberty and dedicated to the proposi- 
tion that all men are created equal. We are now engaged in a great civil 
war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedi- 
cated, can long endure." 

Such in truth was the nature of the conflict which took place here ; and 
who can now doubt that a decision adverse to the principle for which 
we contended would have proved a dire, if not an irreparable, calamity to 
mankind. To have testified to the world that this latest and most auspi- 
cious example of popular government based on universal intelligence, free 
conscience and moral power, had, within the first century of its existence, 
generated within itself the elements of its own destruction, would have been 
to confess to the world that mankind in the most advanced state of civiliza- 
tion and under the most favorable conditions is incapable of self-govern- 
ment. Our name as a nation blotted from the registry of time would have 
checked the onward march of civilization for centuries to come, and the 
dark pall of oblivion would have enshrouded alike freedom's glory and man's 
earthly hopes. 

That we were right in that contest is a feeling not only borne in the 
inner consciousness of every Union soldier who took part in the civil war, 
but is even now testified to by many of the best and bravest of those 
who differed from us in the past, and the courage of whose convictions 
was proved on many a hard-fought field. At a meeting held during the 
recent centennial observance in New York City, a noted Confederate gen- 
eral publicly declared his belief that the result of the war was fortunate 
for all concerned . At the same meeting the Governor of that State within 
the borders of which was first unfurled the banner of secession and along 
the shores of which re-echoed the first gun of the rebellion publicly said: 

"We may have been wrong, God only knows, and it now does seem as 
though His decision is against us." 

When time shall have healed the wounds and smoothed the asperities of 
the war, the utterances of these two representative men of the New South 
will have become crystallized into positive truth, accepted in good faith, 
and glorified in patriotic endeavors by all citizens of the republic ; and there 
shall be fouud none in this broad land to question the righteousness of that 
verdict which settled in all minds and for all time, the questions of the in- 
dissolubility of the American Union. 

It is therefore a matter of interest to us to meet here after the lapse of 
many years, to dedicate this monument which testifies to where we stood 
in the great crisis of our country's history. True it speaks to us in a special 
sense of Gettysburg; but who can read the inscriptions of other battles 
in which we took no unimportant part, and not indulge in retrospective 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 249 

thought of all the thrilling scenes and incidents of the three-years' service 
of the regiment. 

One of America's gifted sons has characterized "midnight's holy hour" of 
the closing year as 

"A time for memory and for tears." 

If our feelings may be moved to such a depth by reflection on the chang- 
ing scenes and incidents of one brief year, what must be the emotions of 
our hearts as we contemplate to-day the most important, the most eventful 
period of our lives, between which time and this a quarter of a century 
has intervened. In memory we recount the many times we've tramped 
along the mountain slopes, across their crests and through the valleys 
from here to Richmond; and as we review the hardships, the trials, the 
dangers, the sorrows; and weigh them in the balance with the joys and 
hallowed recollections of those years, and see around us in the growing 
greatness and glory of our country, such grand fruition of our hopes and 
efforts, we might ask ourselves, would we, with knowledge of all we then 
endured, again enlist as soldiers should our country caU to arms? I think 
I hear you answer yes, as then, from a sense of duty, but not otherwise. 
And yet as I look into your faces and see in furrowed cheeks and whitened 
hairs sad premonition of declining years, I am afraid you'd not respond 
to every roll-call after weary marches such as those that we were wont 
to make. But they are over— those days have passed, and the great events 
with which they were prolific are written on the pages of our country's 
history, whilst the surviving actors in the bloody drama are journeying 
down life's slope towards the setting sun. But of one thing we're as- 
sured. There is no regret in any soldier's heart for having served his 
country in that hour of danger. 

There is a well-grounded attachment on the part of the surviving members 
of the old Ninth Regiment to the memories that cluster around its history. 
But this is not surprising when we reflect that each member of that or- 
ganization was animated by a spirit of patriotism, to unite in the defense 
of our common country. Each shared in the common dangers of camp 
and field, and all were bound by the ties of a comradeship that were 
"welded in the fires of battle." Not least among the treasured recollections 
of our army life is the one that our regiment was among the first to 
respond to the call of the President for troops. It is worth something 
at this time to know that the men who enlisted in the early days of 1861, 
when there was no enticement of a large bounty before, and no coercive 
power of conscription behind them, represented the typical American sol- 
dier, the free citizen of a free land, understanding and appreciating the 
blessings and privileges, and willing to share the responsibilities and duties 
of citizenship. Of such were the men who took their first lessons in the 
school of the soldier in old Camp Wilkins and who were there organized 
as the Ninth Regiment of the "Pennsylvania Reserve Corps," an army in 
itself conceived in the wisdom and created through the energy of our 
then war Governor, Andrew G. Curtin, who still lives, ripe in years, hon- 
ored by all patriotic citizens and beloved by all surviving soldiers of the 
war. 



250 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

It may well give us pride now to look back ou those years and feel that, 
throughout our term of service, the regiment was second to no other of 
the division in the good opinion of brigade and division commanders, and 
that, at times, it pleased them to make public acknowledgement of the fact. 
And it must certainly add to our appreciation of such opinions to know that 
they came from such sources as General Meade, the hero of Gettysburg ; 
General Reynolds, whose life blood hallowed the memories of this field; 
General McCall, our organizer and first commander, and our own General 
Ord, under whose dashing leadership the Third Brigade won the first 
laurels of victory at Dranesville, that crowned any portion of the Army 
of the Potomac. These brave soldiers have all fought their last battle, 
and gone to their reward, as have also our first field officers, Jackson, 
Anderson and Snodgrass. May their memories be cherished by all true 
patriots, as I know they are by all surviving members of the old Ninth 
Regiment. But it was not only our officers and commanders who shed a 
halo of glory around the regimental history. There was to be found among 
the private soldiers a degree of intelligence, courage, patriotism and moral 
standard, at least, unsurpassed by any other similar organization of the 
war. 

It would be impossible, without more complete data than I have at com- 
mand, to mention all the many conspicuous instances of gallantry and 
devotion to duty that might be gathered and woven into heroic or pathetic 
story if we could obtain from friends and comrades the true heart histories 
of all who fell from our ranks. Of these there are a few still fresh in 
memory to which I may be permitted to refer as illustrating something of 
the character of the boys of the regiment. 

On the eve of the second battle of Bull Run a number of enlisted men, 
having been promoted for meritorious service on the Peninsula, received 
their commissions, with instructions to report at headquarters for assign- 
ment to duty. They were entitled to, and could have claimed, their dis- 
charges, but with that high sense of honor characteristic of the true soldier 
and brave men under all circumstances, they declined to turn their backs 
on their comrades in the hour of impending danger, and went into that fight, 
carrying their guns as enlisted men, while they held their commissions 
as officers in their pockets. One of their number, the brave John Dannals, 
of Company A, was killed in the fight, while two others that I know of, 
who are still living, honored citizens of the country they helped to save, were 
seriously wounded. 

Just before the battle of Fredericksburg the bright and grave young 
soldier, John Westlake, having been for a long time on detached service 
with the Signal Corps, reported to his company for duty. I see him to-day, 
as he had just returned from a visit to his home, his trim form, handsome 
boyish face and bright new uniform, ready, willing and anxious to share 
with his comrades whatever of danger there might be in the line of duty. 
Fredericksburg was his first and last battle. Those who took part in the 
charge on the left of our line that day, will remember with what reluctant 
regret we relinquished the advantage we had gained, because of the failure 
to send us the needed and promised support. Many were the brave boys 
who fell with Jackson, our general and leader in that terrible charge and 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 251 

disastrous retreat — and among them young Westlake. Where his body 
was afterwai-ds found, there were three or four of the company rifles which 
the boy soldier had gathered and endeavored to bring from the field, show- 
ing that the pledge given to the citizens of Pittsburgh who had presented 
those rifles to the company was, with him, no unmeaning obligation, but 
one in the fulfilment of which he offered up his life. 

The night before that same battle. Lieutenant Long, who you all re- 
member, sat beside the camp-fire with a friend and comrade, and talked 
of a premonition he had that he would fall in the approaching engagement. 
His comrade tried to lead his mind away from such forebodings, but he 
continued to talk of his approaching death, as that comrade afterwards in- 
formed me, in a brave, calm manner; and the last words he said that night 
were: "I feel sure this will be my last night with the boys of the company 
and regiment." He had given his watch, letters and other tokens of value 
to the hospital steward, with instructions to send them to his mother after 
the battle. He fell mortally wounded in the front of the fight and lived but 
a few hours. I had known Reuben Long from the time, when, as lads 
in our teens, we attended the same school, and as boy and man he was 
ever noble, true-hearted and brave. It matters not what you or I may 
think of premonitions such as so impressed his mind that night before the 
battle. This we know. As he sat beside the camp-fire, and calmly, 
bravely, as his friend expressed it, talked of his approaching death, he felt 
within his soul that to-morrow's sun would light his pathway to the tomb. 
Yet, when the mist was lifted from the field of Fredericksburg, and the 
battle line was formed on that December morning, he was present at the 
post of duty, nor faltered, though he heard his death knell in the command 
to charge across that fated field. It is easy to understand how, in the 
whirl of the battle's mad fury, one may encounter and despise danger, 
or even death with all its terrors. But in the stillness of the night, to 
calmly contemplate the giving up of home, and friends, and kindred, and 
life itself with all its hopes and joys and aspirations, and yet, in honor's 
name, resolve to make the sacrifice, is something that the truly brave of 
heart, and only they, can understand. In such heroic conduct in the very 
face of death, we have a clearer view of how a brave man may approach 
his grave. 

"I.ike ore who wraps the drapery of his couch 
About him, and lies down to pleasant dreams." 

In my own company there were three brothers — sons of a widow — one 
of whom, the brave, cheerful, noble-hearted William Mahaft'ey was among 
the first to fall in that fearful charge at Gaines' Mill; and to-day his mould- 
ering remains lie somewhere, in an unknown and unmarked grave, on the 
Peninsula. At the battle of Bull Run that gallant soldier. Captain Shan- 
non, received a leaden messenger of death in his forehead. Lieutenant 
Kirkpa trick, ever foremost and fearless in the path of duty, was at home 
seriously woimded. The first lieutenant, complaining of some bodily in- 
firmity, I know not what, was at Washington city pleading for a discharge 
from the service. Robert Mahaffey, one of the two remaining brothers 
of whom I have spoken, was first sergeant and in command of the company. 
Though suffering from a severe wound in the arm, received from the flying 



252 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

fragment of a shell, he refused to act on the advice of Dr. Phillips and go 
to the hospital for treatment. But, with his arm bound and carried in a 
sling, he led the company on that tiresome march through Maryland, up 
the rugged steeps of South Mountain, and on to the battlefield of Antietam, 
where, with Snively, Swartzlander, Scott, Lemon, McLain, Vanlier, and 
other brave boys like himself, who fell around the regimental colors, he 
poured out his life's blood in defense of the flag. 

Who that lay beside this stone wall when first erected wUl ever forget 
the piteous cries for water, that came as an aftermath of the charge in 
this swale, from the wounded Confederates who lay in our front. They 
were in armed rebellion against the legally-constituted authorities of our 
government — sworn enemies of our country, bent on its destruction. But 
they were our brothers, and the ethics of our Christian civilization not only 
forbade that we should needlessly torture them, but demanded that we 
should use all reasonable measures to prevent their suffering, and there 
was common assent and approbation when Sergeant McMunn volunteered 
to carry to those wounded men the water for which they prayed. But, oh! 
the cruel treacherous greeting with which that act of Christian charity was 
met, in the worse than rebel bullet that came crashing through his face 
as he bent to cool with water the burning lips of a wounded, helpless foe. 
It did not prove a fatal wound, but it v/ould have been a blessing to our 
comrade had that bullet struck a vital spot, for who can measure the depth 
of pain and sorrow and mental anguish in which it plunged his after life, 
at last dethroning reason and ending in his self-destruction. 

I have spoken but of the dead, and not of the many wounded living 
who bear in their bodies painful reminders of their devotion to country 
and duty, and those of whom I have spoken were not officers of exalted 
positions, commanding divisions and army corps, but all of them, at the 
time of their enlistment, numbered among the rank and file of the regi- 
ment. But I need not say to you that there marched in the ranks of our 
volunteer soldiers many who, as to moral and intellectual force, social 
standing and all the elements of true nobility of character, were peers of 
any and more than peers of many of those to whom they owed obedience 
in the line of duty, and do you tell me that these men in the humbler 
stations who so faithfully and courageously performed the obligations of 
their soldier life are deserving of honor or gratitude in less degree than 
those who, by chance or favor, or even by virtue of their talents, were 
more exalted in position? Though such a sentiment seems to accord 
with the spirit of the times I cannot believe it. The general who rode at 
the head of the columns with groom and orderly to pitch his tent where to 
sleep at night did his duty no more and no less than the private soldier 
who, foot-sore and weary, under the burden of his arms and accoutrements, 
marched through summer's heat or winter's cold, content to bivouac under 
heaven's blue vault for a tent, with but a single blanket as a martial cloak 
to shield him from the snows, the rains and the chilly airs of night. 

In a letter which the treasurer of our association received from the late 
William Thaw of Pittsburgh, and which accompanied a liberal contribution 
toward the erection of this monument, the spirit which animated the boys 
of 1861 is referred to, though briefly, in a manner alike eloquent with truth 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 253 

and creditable to the patriotism of that great and good man, and this 
suggests a thought to which it is proper I should refer here. 

The State, as you are aware, appropriated the sum of fifteen hundred 
doUars to each separate cotamand that participated in this battle. Your 
committee, desiring to erect a more imposing monument than this sum would 
justify, made an appeal, by circular letter, to members and friends of the 
regiment, for contributions to a supplemental fund. Mr. Thaw who was 
one of the early patrons of the regiment and especially of Company A, 
in which he took a special interest, sent his check for a large contribution, 
and wrote Mr. Murdock, our treasurer, as follows: 

* * * "Meanwhile I send you a check for five hundred dollars, for 
the fund for erecting a monument at Gettysburg to the Ninth Pennsyl- 
vania Reserves, as a memorial of Mrs. Thaw to her brother, John S. 
Copley, kUled at South Mountain, September 14, 1862, and from myself 
also as a memorial of a large number of personal young friends who went 
away with the 'Pittsburgh Rifles' (Company A) that summer morning in 
1861 (whom I, with other of their friends and relatives marched up Penn 
street by their side), and who never came back, leaying their bodies scat- 
tered — and in some cases unmarked — sacrificed for their country with an 
intelligent and spontaneous patriotism such as was not surpassed by any 
organization that went into the war." 

A few weeks ago, in a foreign city, the immortal spirit of William Thaw 
passed from earth to heaven, and but recently his body was entombed in 
his native city. While living, because of his generous spirit and unbounded 
charities, he was, perhaps, the best loved man in the State of Pennsylvania, 
and to-day his memory is enshrined in the hearts of thousands, not only 
of those who were sharers of his bounty, but also those who were admirers 
of his character. 

Also, widely known for large beneficence and purity of life, is the widow 
to whom, in her sad bereavement, a multitude of mourning hearts go out 
in sympathy ; and I know that the hearts of all who are here assembled 
will respond with quickened impulse to a sense of gratitude and sympathy 
when it is learned that this noble woman's present interest in our organiza- 
tion is born of what to each of us is a sad but hallowed memory of the 
war — the heroic death of our brave and worthy comrade, her brother, I 
feel that I but meet the wishes and voice the sentiments of all the com- 
rades, when to her, and to all the friends who have so generously con- 
tributed to the erection of this monument, I make public acknowledgment 
of their liberality and friendly interest. 

This letter of the grand man whose friendship is one of the memories 
of which we may well feel proud, refers to an "intelligent and spontaneous 
patriotism" as the inspiration that prompted the young men of the counti'y 
to respond to the call of duty in 1861. I know there are many of intensely 
practical temperament, whose view of life and measure of its duties 
is bounded by the narrow circle of selfish interests, desires and pleasures, 
who cannot comprehend the full and true meaning of "intelligent patriot- 
ism," or understand how such a sentiment can have a dwelling place in 
the heart of man. But, thank God, it has pleased him to implant in the 
hearts of the great majority of His rational creatures a feeling that 



254 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

patriotism in its true sense, as signifying those virtues which grow out of 
a love of country, is as much a divine attribute in the human soul, as 
is that love to God and humanity, on which the Master assures iis, "hang 
all the law and the prophets." Sentiment it may be, and doubtless is, 
but not such according to Hume aud his class of metaphysicians— a mere 
feeling — but rather a resultant of the co-operation of rational power and 
moral feeling. Why, I can no more conceive of those young men — boys 
in years, but men in deeds— whose familiar forms rise in memory before 
me to-day, as I have seen them in the hour of deadly conflict, their pale 
faces seamed with the smoke and sweat of battle— doing , daring, dying for 
their country. I can no more conceive of them as being actuated by a wild 
and irrational impulse or unreasoning sentiment when they exchanged the 
comforts of good homes and the companionships of kind friends, for the 
rough, bare and common dangers of ;i soldiers' life, than I can conceive 
of them as being moved by mercenary considerations in abandoning profit- 
able and congenial employments for the distasteful and profitless calling 
of arms. Say if you will, that they were moved by sentiment. It was 
such a one as has been the inspiration of martyrs and patriots in all ages 
of the world, when they have counted their lives as nothing in comparison 
with their convictions of right and the demands of duty. Such a senti- 
ment as has proved an inspiration to the noblest deeds of philanthropy, 
of which the world has had knowledge, and through which mankind has 
been blessed. 

The liberal contribution which accompanies this letter from our honored 
friend, whose lips are now sealed in death, coming as it does as the joint 
gift of husband aud wife, suggests a thought which very seldom receives 
that consideration its importance demands, aud this is, that there were 
heroines as well as heroes in our civil war ; and they apart from the many 
noble women, whose heaven-born mission led them as ministering angels 
to hospital and battlefield, where with tender loving care they nursed the 
sick, or prayed beside the couch of dying soldier boys. 

We are apt in estimating the c<j.st as well as in apportioning the honors 
of the civil war, to become so absorbed in the financial and military prob- 
lems wrought out in halls of legislation and on the battlefield to overlook 
the patient, though sileut, influence that went out from the home circles 
of our land, where mothers, sisters, wives and sweethearts, toiled with 
willing hands and prayed with fervent spirits in our behalf. Many of you 
have heard one of our comrades tell how, having enlisted when under age, 
his father tried to prevent him from continuing in the service. During his 
first visit to camp the father failed to shake the boy's purpose, and the 
day following he returned, bringing his wife along to plead for their son's 
return. Failing again to make the desired impression, and finding that a 
threat to exercise his legal authority to compel the boy to return home was 
of no avail, the father turned in despair to the little woman at his side. 
Reaching up and placing her hands on the broad shoulders of her boy, she 
said: "My son, you are dearer to me than the apple of mine eye, and yet 
if you feel it to be your duty to enlist and should fail to respond to your 
country's call, in this hour of the nation's peril, all I can say, is, you would 
then have none of your mother's blood in your veins." 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 255 

Who can tell how much that feeling of patriotism referred to in the letter 
of William Thaw as the animating spirit of the boys of 1861 was inspired, 
encouraged and controlled by the loyal women of our land, and to what 
extent its spontaneity was owing to their active earnest sympathy and 
efforts. And is it not true that the tiresome march was made with less 
fatigue, that privations were borne more willingly, and dangers encountered 
with courage strengthened because of loved ones praying for our safety and 
the triumph of our cause? 

We rejoiced that they were far removed from the scene of conflict and 
were blessed with comforts to us denied ; but he has yet to learn the depth 
and power of woman's love, who knows not, that, in sleepless nights, in 
anxious fears, in patient waitings and in bitter sorrow for the loved ones 
lost, they suffered more than tongue can tell. God bless these mothers, 
sisters, wives and sweetheax-ts of the war in whose approving smiles and 
sympathizing hearts we found such patient inspiration in the path of duty 
and the hour of danger. 

But, comrades, the hours of the day are passing, many years have come 
and gone since first we looked upon the field of Gettysburg; and this is, 
perhaps, the last time that, as an organization, we shall gather here. 

Without pretense to powers of divination, I think I may safely say your 
minds have largely dwelt to-day upon the strange and striking contrast 
between the scene as here presented and that which met the view when 
first we came upon this field. Then this ground, crimsoned with the ming- 
ling blood of friend and foe, trembled beneath the shock of battle as hos- 
tile forces charged and counter-charged across these fields. These hiUs 
were ablaze with the very flame of .death as it belched from cannon mouth. 
The air was rent with cannon roar, with shriek of bursting sheU and 
whistling bullets sound, all playing to the sad accompaniment of moan, 
and groan, and prayer, and imprecation from the lips of wounded, dying 
men, while from out the pandemonium, none knew how soon might come to 
him the summons to 

"Take bis chamber in the silent halls of death." 

To-day the air is filled with peaceful sounds and odors. The ripened 
harvests have been gathered from the fields where the reaper death mowed 
with bloody scythe and fiendish joy the cannon's swath. The chirp and 
song of bird are undisturbed by gun report or shout of hostile army, and 
everywhere around we may see a token of that promised coming of the 
Lord, when sword and spear, the implements of war, shaU be beaten into 
share of plough and pruning hook. "When nation shall not lift up sword 
against nation, neither shall they learn war any more." 

Until we shall behold the glory of this prophetic vision, may we not 
indulge the hope and prayer that never again may we be called upon to 
resort to the dread arbitrament of arms to defend the honor of our country's 
flag. 

And now, comrades, as we part to-day, what thought or lesson of the 
hour shall we take with us to our homes to serve as an incentive to renewed 
devotion in the line of patriotic duty? 



256 Pennsylvania at Oettyshurg. 

When the first great leader and lawgiver of the children of Israel was laid 
to rest, "in a vale in the land of Moab," Joshua, his successor, directed, 
as the host were passing" over Jordan, in the presence of the priests who 
bore aloft the ark of the covenant of the Lord, that twelve men be chosen — 
one from each of the tribes that had journeyed in the wilderness, and that 
these men take, each, a stone from the bed of the river where the bearers 
of the ark had stood, and that these stones be carried to the place on the 
east side of Jordan where they should encamp that night, and be there 
erected as a memorial unto the children of Israel forever. Not as testifying 
to the courage and endurance of the chosen people who had wandered for 
forty years in a barren land, but as testifying to the mightiness of God 
and his faithfulness in the fulfilment of his promises. And when the stones 
were placed as directed, Joshua spake unto the people saying: 
. "When your children shall ask their fathers, in time to come, saying what 
mean these stones? 

"Then ye shall let your children know, saying, Israel came over this 
Jordan on dry land." 

"That all the people of the earth might know the hand of the Lord, that 
it is mighty." 

Standing within the shadow of these hills which were silent witnesses 
of the contest waged here in the ever-to-be-remembered past, and in the 
presence of this monument which speaks of where we stood in that hour 
of trial and danger, and seeing the sculptured granite with which this field 
is dotted, may we not imagine our children and our children's children in 
the years to come, asking their fathers, as did the Israelitish children of 
old: "What mean these stones?" 

Truly may it be said to them that "the hand of the Lord is mighty" 
and though they may not be told that their fathers "came over this on 
dry land," but rather on ground drenched with the blood of wounded and 
slain comrades, yet may it be said they stood here devoted to the cause 
of human liberty and upholding the "Ark of our Covenant" of Perpetual 
Union ; and if ever the unrighteous hand of political ambition shall again 
remove that ark from our midst may worse than Assyrian calamities afHict 
the plunderers till our treasure be restored. If ever the genius of human 
liberty be driven from our shores, like Noah's dove may she find no rest 
for the soles of her feet until she return and find a glad people ready and 
willing to receive, to cherish and to love her. 

As testifying to the restoration of that Ark of our Covenant— to the re- 
enthonement of that presiding genius of our nation, and to the heroic 
endeavors of those who, under God's favor— though it may have been in 
tears, in sorrow and blood, wrought out the triumph of a righteous cause, 
may this monument remain a memorial unto your children forever. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 257 



ADDRESS OF SERGEANT-MAJOR A. P. MORRISON. 

TWENTY-SIX years have swiftly rolled away, old comrades of the 
"Ninth," since we stood here on this very spot in battle line, bearing 
our part in that momentous three-days' struggle between the armies 
of the North and South, which history has already recognized and recorded 
as one of those great battles of the world, which change or fix and de- 
termine the destinies of nations, and the character of their civil institutions 
for all time. 

Here, on this bloody field of Gettysburg, the surging tide of "Secession" 
was stayed and turned back, and the "union" of these states was saved 
from impending dissolution, and for all time made sure and strong. Here 
the most costly sacrifice of patriot blood was poured out a willing offering 
by the nation's sons, to the end that this great nation might live, and con- 
tinue to live on and on, "to the last syllable of recorded time." 

Yes, comrades, the "Ninth" stood here then, in name and fame strong 
as in other days of battle, to meet the foe — but in numbers how reduced. 
Where now — in this the very crisis of the great conflict — where now, are 
those ten hundred men and more, who two short years before had marched 
beneath the battalion banner of the "Ninth," with bounding hearts and 
buoyant step, away from home and friends, and all the joys of peaceful 
life, to battle for the right? 

Here, but a handful of those brave ones stood to meet the onset of the 
impetuous foe, whose feet had dared invade the borders of their native 
State. Where had the others gone? Let Dranesville tell; let the gory 
fields of the seven-days' fight from Beaver Dam to Malvern Hill make 
truthful answers. Let the fierce fighting in the Pope campaign from Rap- 
pahannock's banks to Chantilly's woods be heard — let South Mountain and 
' Antietam mournfully reply ; and Fredericksburg with solemn voice from hill 
and plain, report the number of the fallen there — let all the wearing marches 
and the exhausting toils of duty in the field, whether the summer sun was 
scorching, or the frosts and piercing winds of winter chilled the lonely 
picket's blood — let all that this imports of hardships and physical disability 
and sickness unto death, make up account for the absent ones of this great 
day. 

Ah, comrades, what a small space of ground among these grey and rugged 
rocks and boulders, could our good regiment cover and fight for and defend 
when the "battle was set in array," on that second and third day of July, 
186-3. Its ten companies, all told, could only place about three hundred men 
in line. 

We believed in the inherent and ever-abiding justice of the cause foi 
which we fought. We felt in our inmost being, then, as ever, that, 

"Rigbt is right — since God is God, 
And right the day must win; 
To doubt would be disloyalty. 
To falter, would be sin." 

And, notwithstanding its depleted ranks, the "Ninth" went forward to its 
place in the line of battle, as steadily and firmly as if it had been itself 
a whole army corps. 



258 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

In the Gettysburg campaign the glory of our regiment, and of the brigade 
as well, consisted not so much in what might be called the actual clash 
of arms in conflict with the rebels, as in its always getting to the right 
place, however perilous that place might be, at the right time — however 
long and exhausting the marches, the effort might requii-e — and in its tenaci- 
ously holding the position to which it was assigned, against the very flower 
of the Confederate army. 

The march from the defenses of Washington, begun on the 25th of 
June, to the battlefield of Gettysburg, not far from Little Round Top — 
taking into consideration the frequent, almost incessant, rains, and the 
heavy and slippery condition of the roads — was a very remarkable one in- 
deed. It tested the vigor and endurance of the men to the utmost limit 
of their strength. If in the daytime we moved slowly and with difiiculty 
through fields and woods, guarding, it might be, long trains of ammunition 
and supplies or batteries of heavy guns, which occupied and oftentimes 
blocked up the soft and deeply-rutted roads, when the sun went down we 
were pushed forward far into the night to make up for our retarded progress 
in the day. 

To you all, soldiers of the "Ninth," I need not enter into details of that 
seven-days' march. Here, on this historic spot, where its goal was reached, 
it comes back to every mind, with all its incidents fresh and vividly as 
if a thing of yesterday. But you will bear with me while I read from 
the dim and faded pages of my own little pocket diary these few brief ex- 
tracts of memoranda relating to that march: 

June 24th, 1863. Our regiment was lying quietly at Vienna. 

On the evening of that day we got orders to rejoin our brigade at Upton's 
Hill some eight miles back. We marched about 9 o'clock and reached our 
destination a little after midnight. 

Thursday, June 25th. The "Ninth" marching with the brigade at 1 
o'clock p . m . , moved out in the direction of Vienna on the same road we 
of the "Ninth" had come in on the night before, and halted not far from 
where we had been encamped. This marching up the hill simply to march 
down again did not seem exactly right to our boys. It meant for them 
sixteen miles of unnecessary tramping through the rain. 

Friday, 26th. Reveille at 4 o'clock in the morning; on the march at 6. 
Raining hard all day; roads very slippery and heavy. Made about sixteen 
miles and halted in the evening at Goose creek not very far from Edwards' 
Ferry. 

Saturday, 27th. Reveille at 4 o'clock; to march at '5. Crossed the Poto- 
mac at Edwards' Ferry on a pontoon bridge and found ourselves once more 
in Maryland, a part of Hooker's army. Day showery and roads muddy. 
Halted at night near the mouth of the Monacacy river having made at 
least fifteen miles. 

Sunday, 28th. Reveille at 3.30; on the march at 5; crossed the Monocacy ; 
day cloudy with a little rain ; joined the Fifth Army Corps ; our "Pennsyl- 
vania Reserves" having been assigned to that corps on the request of Gen- 
eral Meade, its then commander: halted near Frederick after marching 
about twelve miles. Here we learned of the appointment of General Meade 
to the command of the "Army of the Potomac." Great news this for us 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 259 

of the Pennsylvania Reserve Corps. We were proud to know that one of 
our own generals, one for whom we felt that toe had won the "stars." 
should be placed in this very highest position in the army in the very 
crisis of the nation's fate. 

We had confidence in him for we know him to be an energetic, brave, 
cool and determined leader. 

Monday, 29th. Reveille again at 4 a. m.; the "Ninth" fell in about 8, 
but did not move forward until about 1, and then marched slowly all the 
afternoon ; the day was rainy and the road was filled up with wagon trains ; 
about 6 o'clock in the evening the road was cleared before us and we 
started off almost on a "double-quick ;" crossed the Monocacy and turned 
directly northward towards Pennsylvania, marching over very bad country 
roads; halted about midnight, having made some fifteen miles. 

Tuesday, June 30th. Reveille at 4 o'clock; it rained on us very hard last 
night and this morning; marched at 7 a. m. ; found the road exceedingly 
heavy and slippery; passed through Liberty, Johnsville, Union Bridge, 
Union, and halted near Union Mills, having made a big day's march, not less 
than twenty miles ; the "Reserves" are all in high spirits about going into 
Pennsylvania. 

Wednesday, July 1st. On the march by 6.30 this morning, moving rather 
slowly all day; crossed the State line into old Pennsylvania about 4 p. m. 
amid glad cheering and loud hurrahs ; heard the dull boom of distant cannon 
from time to time, but did not then know that the great battle was al- 
ready on; about 6.30 o'clock in the evening the division was massed, rations 
were issued and extra ammunition distributed to the men, and all signs indi- 
cated a coming fight; there was not much rest in this short halt, and by 
8 o'clock we were again on the move ; marched on without stopping until 
about 2 o'clock of the morning of the 2d, halting at last, after passing 
through Hanover, near McSherrystown. 

Thursday, July 2d. After only two hours rest, reveille at 4 a. m., and 
marched immediately without waiting even to make a cup of coffee. Pretty 
hard this, but the weary men now understanding that the emergency was 
pressing, and forgetting the want of much-needed sleep and food and rest, 
pushed forward cheerfully and eagerly toward what they knew must be a 
bloody battle. After marching about an hour we were halted long enough 
to make our coffee, and then once more moved rapidly forward until about 
10 o'clock we reached Rock creek, some two miles southeast of the town 
of Gettysburg. Here we learned of the disastrous fortunes of the preced- 
ing day to the Union forces, and worst news of all, the untimely death of 
one of our best loved generals, one whom the Pennsylvania Reserve Volun- 
teer Corps was proud to have claimed as its own commander— the beau ideal 
soldier, the gallant General Reynolds. 

From 7 o'clock a. m., of July 1st to 11 o'clock on the 2d, twenty-eight 
hours, with only about three hours given to sleep and rest, our regiment had 
marched forty -two miles. Is it any wonder that when the halt was 
sounded the weary men threw themselves upon the ground, under that 
burning July sun and slept away the hours, while the battle was preparing? 

About 4 o'clock in the afternoon the fiery storm suddenly burst in fierce 
fury on Sickles' Third Corps. Immediately the Fifth under Sykes was 



260 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

hurried forward to the succor of the Third, then badly broken up and forced 
back in shattered fragments from its too-far-advanced position. It must 
have been about 5 o'clock when our division, the Third of Sykes' Corps, 
under the gallant General Crawford, passed over the crest of the ridge out 
yonder to the right of Little Round Top, and first came under fire. How 
vividly the fearful scene of that dread hour comes back to you old soldiers 
of the "Ninth," as you now look out over yonder quiet woods and peaceful 
fields. The sun, a dull, red ball of fire, was going down "wrapped in drifts 
of lurid smoke." The appalling roar of cannon; the screaming shells ex- 
ploding in mid-air ; the sharp rattling and continuous crash of infantry 
firing ; the charging masses of the enemy ; the broken columns of our side 
slowly falling back, contesting every foot of ground, and yielding one 
position only to make a more stubborn stand for another ; the whole atmos- 
phere thick and heavy with the sulphurous smoke of battle. Yon field 
of ripened grain just ready for the harvest, "blasted below the dun hot 
breath of war." 

Oh, comrades, it was not a cheering scene that then opened on our view! 
On the contrary, we might truly say that at that moment "disaster stared 
us in the face." The two brigades of United States Infantry, the "Regu- 
lars," had just advanced across you piece of level ground, while our two 
brigades of Pennsylvania Reserves, by General Crawford's orders, were 
"massed in column by division," in the open space just north of this rocky 
spur of Roimd Top." 

Vincent, and O'Rorke, and Hazlett, and Weed, with their gallant com- 
mands, had but a few moments before wrested this master-post of Little 
Round Top from the grasp of Hood. 

But, oh! at what a cost! Vincent and O'Rorke, Hazlett and Weed, all 
four, lay dead upon this mount of glory. 

The question then was, could the survivors of the terrible struggle to 
secure this vantage ground, thus bereft of all their leaders, could they with- 
stand another impending charge of the now exultant rebels? The stake was 
great, too great to be left in doubt. 

Humphreys was "changing front to the rear," but to no good purpose. 
Sweitzer's Brigade fiercely beset on its flank and rear was forced from its 
position. The "Regulars," attacked in front and flank, were compelled to 
fall back. 

You all remember how they looked. How firmly they held themselves 
together, firing and falling back, firing and falling back, their front diminish- 
ing at every volley until only one-half of their charging column was left to 
fire! 

It was just at this critical moment that our gallant General Crawford 
put his two brigades of Pennsylvania Reserves in motion, our Third Bri- 
gade in front. Advancing rapidly we were very soon within range and 
under a heavy fire from the enemy. But we had not gone more than fifty 
yards when the iirgent call for re-inforcement for the few survivors of the 
gallant regiments that had at such a heavy cost plucked Little Round Top 
from the clutch of Hood and his Confederate veterans — and who now 
crippled, and exhausted by the deadly struggle, their leaders cold in death, 
still lying where they fell, awaited among these rocks and on this rugged 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 2G1 

hill, the still more desperate charge the baffled rebels were preparing to 
overwhelm their decimated ranks and seize this granite key of the battle- 
field — reached General Crawford. He was not slow in responding to the 
call. Ours, the leading brigade, was halted and ordered to go at once to 
the succor of the exhausted comrades of the Vincent and O'Rorke com- 
mands. Without a moment's delay, the Fifth, Ninth, Tenth and Twelfth 
Regiments of Reserves changed direction and moved by the left flank, 
almost on a double-quick over the hill to this, its western slope, and joined 
the remnant of Vincent's Battalion. The movement was in the very nick 
of time. The plan of Hood and Law, to seize the "coigne of vantage," 
was foiled, for with accession of Fisher's Brigade to the gallant men who 
had so desperately fought for and so tenaciously held this almost impreg- 
nable position, any new attack would be madness, and could only result 
in a repulse more sanguinary and crushing than the first had been. 

Little Round Top, found and proclaimed by Warren to be the key to the 
whole Union battle line, was saved — and safe — for General Meade, what- 
ever might befall on other portions of the field. 

A little later when darkness had settled over these woods, the Fifth and 
Twelfth Regiments were taken by Colonel Fisher, with other troops, to 
drive the enemy from Round Top and occupy its lofty summit, while the 
Ninth and Tenth were left to hold and guard this gap which Hood and 
Law had deemed their open gateway to our left and rear. We did not then 
know the supreme importance of the position we had to protect, but we 
do know now from General Hill's official report that "Hood's right was 
held as in a vise." 

About 10 o'clock that night, our line being established and our pickets 
set a few yards in advance, we lay down, each soldier in his place and "with 
all his armor on" ready for any night attack the rebels might attempt ; and 
notwithstanding an occasional shot from a picket post to remind us of im- 
pending danger, and the pitiful moaning of the wounded all around us, we 
slept as only exhausted soldiers can. With the earliest dawn of day on 
July 3d, our line was up and on the elert. How vigorously you all worked, 
comrades, on this stone wall! A labor of love it was, of love of life, if 
honor, of country; for well you knew how this low breastwork, rude and 
rough in form, might help to gain and save them all, in the storm of battle 
that then seemed sure to burst upon us ere the sun was high. 

And here we lay all that long summer day awaiting calmly, yea hoping, 
for the charging columns of the rebels. But no attack in force was made 
on our position. Skirmish firing in our front and the crack of the sharp- 
shooters' rifles were the only sounds of war that broke the stillness of these 
woods, untU, sudden as a flash of lightning in the sultry afternoon, these 
"rock ribbed hills" were made to shake and quiver by that terrific roar 
of three hundred cannon thundering from the opposing lines. Oh! how 
great and grand it was, and yet how dreadful. These rocks and woods that 
seemed to promise refuge and safety became an added element of danger 
when the iron hail that filled the air cut off large limbs from these tall 
trees and hurled among us granite fragments whenever a heavy round 
shot struck and shattered some protruding boulder. But with all that 
fearful shelling the casualties in the Ninth were very few. The records 

18 



262 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

show we had but two men killed and five men wounded in this great 
battle . 

But the wounding of one of our comrades, one who but lately, "after 
life's fitful fever," has gone to his long rest, was an incident of that day 
which may have special mention. Here it was, right here, that brave 
and generous Sergeant McMunn of Company G, moved only by an impulse 
of pity for a suffering man, laying aside his gun ami holding up his hand 
in token that he went only on a deed of peace and mercy, stepped out 
from the protection of our wall of stones, to carry to the parched lips of 
a sorely wounded foe, a cup of water. And while bending over the death- 
stricken body of the rebel soldier in this ministration of pity and compas- 
sion, a bullet from the rifle of some ruthless rebel sharpshooter hidden in 
the tree top crushed through his face. It was a most dastardly deed ! But 
sudden and sure vengeance followed on the instant, and the rebel miscreant 
fell pierced by more than one ball from the sergeant's comrades of Com- 
paoy G. 

The battle ended with the setting sun of that third day of mighty 
conflict and slaughter, and victory at last rested with the side which 
was contending for the righteous cause of our national unity and the per- 
petuation of that beneficent system of government which had been handed 
down to us, a precious legacy, by the patriot fathers, the wise and far- 
seeing statesmen and sages of the old Revolutionary times. 

When the morning sunlight gilded these mountain heights and rugged 
rocks, and spread in splendor over all these blood-stained plains and ridges 
on that 4th day of'July, 1863, the ever-joyous anniversary of our nation's 
natal day, the nation's existence which had been ruthlessly threatened and 
imperiled by its Confederate enemies, was once more firmly established on 
its sure foundation, its underlying corner-stone, strong and enduring as 
this great rock of Round Top under whose shadow we now stand — that 
ever living principle which appeals to the common seuse of the common 
people among aU races and in all times — the principle, namely, "of govern- 
ment of the people, by the people, for the people." 

That, comrades, was the great stake for which we of the Union army 
battled here and on a hundred other glorious fields all over the Union's 
wide extended realm. 

And may I not now, after the lapse of these many years, adopt the 
beautiful language of Edward Everett, the venerable and eloquent orator 
on the occasion of the dedication, a quarter of a century ago, of yonder 
National Cemetery to the sacred dust of the martyr heroes who gave up 
their lives, "that wheresoever throughout the civUized world the accounts 
of that great warfare are read, and down to the latest period of recorded 
time, in the glorious annals of our common country, there wUl be no brighter 
page than that which relates The Battle of Gettysburg." 







''-•jr.- ^ • .'_?3 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 263 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

39TH REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

(Tenth Reserves) 

September 2, 1890 

ADDRESS OF FIRST LIEUT. AND ADJUTANT 

GEORGE w. Mccracken. 

COMRADES and friends: — It is unnecessary for me to remark that the 
time, to which I am limited on this occasion, entirely precludes any- 
thing that could be fairly denominated history. The history of the 
Tenth Regiment, would require a volume of several hundred pages. What 
I offer is a brief sketch of its organization, what might be called an itin- 
erary of its campaigns, and a few statistics. 

During the month of June, 1861, there assembled in the old "Fair 
Grounds," on Penn street, in Pittsburgh (for the time-being called "Camp 
Wilkins") seven companies of young men, who had enrolled themselves, at 
as many different places, scattered over territory embraced in six of the 
counties of western Pennsylvania. Three others of the same make-up 
had, at the same time, come together at Camp Wright, at Hulton Station, 
about ten miles up the Allegheny river. On the 28th of June these com- 
panies were organized as a regiment of infantry. John S. McCalmont 
of Venango county, was colonel; James T. Kirk of Washington county, 
lieutenant-colonel, and Harrison Allen of Warren county, major. The 
organization was designated by the Governor of Pennsylvania, "The Tenth 
Regiment of Infantry of the Pennsylvania Reserve Volunteer Corps." 
The Pennsylvania Reserve Corps was a military organization then being 
formed in pursuance of an act of the general assembly, approved May 15, 
1861, and designed primarily for the defense of the State, but subject at 
any time to be called into the service of the United States. 

To bring the regiment into one camp, the companies at Camp Wilkins, 
which were those known during their service as Companies, A, B, C, D, G, 
I and K, marched on the afternoon of July 1, to Camp Wright. 

In Camp Wright, along with Colonel J. W. McLane's old Erie Regiment, 
and the Ninth and Eleventh regiments and Battery B, of the Pennsylvania 
Reserve Corps, the Tenth was exercised in drill and instructed in guard 
duty until the afternoon of July 18, when it marched aboard a train of 
twenty-one cars, and, after an all-night ride over the Pennsylvania railroad 
to Huntingdon, and thence over the Huntingdon and Broad Top railroad, 
landed at Hopewell, Bedford county. Pa., next morning. 

In afternoon marched to Bloody Run, near Everett; next morning marched 
back to Hopewell ; again took the cars ; about midnight were bountifully 
fed by the good ladies of Huntingdon, and shortly after daylight, July 
21, 1861 (day of battle of Bull Run), landed in Harrisburg, put up at 
Camp Curtin. That afternoon the regiment was mustered into the service 



'Organized at Harrisburg August 11, 1861, to serve three year's. It was mustered out 
June 11, 1864, by reason of expiration of service. 



264 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

of the United States for the term of three years, being the first of the 
Pennsylvania Reserve Corps so mustered. The mustering ofiicer was lieu- 
tenant-colonel, afterward General T. W. Sherman, United States Army. 
On the afternoon of 22d, again marched aboard the cars, and next morn- 
ing at an early hour arrived in Baltimore. Marched across the city with 
muskets loaded, and camped for a night at Mount Clare. 

Late in the evening of July 24, the regiment embarked on a train of box 
cars, and in the night arrived at the Baltimore and Ohio railroad station, 
in Washington. In and around the depot the men made themselves as 
comfortable as circumstances would allow until noon, then bivouacked 
for two nights on the Capitol grounds (then enclosed by a high fence), 
near the northeast corner of the Capitol building, and then camped a few 
days on the commons near Eastern Branch of Potomac. On the 5th of 
August, marched up Pennsylvania avenue and out through Georgetown 
to Tennallytown. The day was intensely hot, and probably more of the 
men suffered from exhaustion and the effects of heat on this short march 
(six or seven miles), than on any other day in the history of the regiment. 
At Camp Tennally the Tenth Regiment remained more than two months, 
occupied in drilling, guard and picket duties, building fortifications, being 
reviewed, etc. ; included in this time, one week, August 13-20, was employed 
as advanced guard at Great Falls. The march to that place was made in 
a terrible down-pour of rain, the old turnpike being fiooded in many places, 
some of them several feet in depth. 

The entire Pennsylvania Reserve Corps was assembled at Tennallytown, 
General George A. McCall commanded the division, which was organized 
as three brigades, commanded respectively by Brigadier-General John F. 
Reynolds, George G. Meade and Colonel John S. McCalmont. Colonel 
McCalmont continued in command of the Third Brigade, constituted 
of the Sixth, Ninth, Tenth and Twelfth regiments, until November 20, 1861, 
when Brigadier-General E. O. C. Ord was assigned to its command. Of 
this brigade the Tenth Regiment continued to be a part during its entire 
term of service. 

October 9, 1861, the Pennsylvania Reserves crossed the Potomac, at 
Chain Bridge, and first trod the soU of Virginia, few of the boys dreaming 
how much they were to come in contact with that sacred article during 
the three years that were to follow. The division now encamped at Lang- 
ley's, on the Old Georgetown and Leesburg pike, called their camp "Camp 
Pierpont," and occupied it just five months, engaged in drill, guard and 
picket duty, with occasional variety in the way of expeditions beyond the 
lines to obtain information of the enemy or gather forage. Sometimes these 
encountered similar parties of the enemy. Of these encounters the most 
important occurred at Dranesville, December 20, 1861. Ord's Brigade, that 
day, met a brigade of rebels commanded by the famous cavalry leader, J. 
E. B. Stuart, and in the engagement which followed, the enemy, consisting 
of the First Kentucky, Sixth South Carolina, Tenth Alabama and Eleventh 
Virginia regiments, were very decidedly worsted. General Stuart reported 
his loss as forty-three killed, one hundred and forty-three wounded and 
eight missing. The loss on our side was seven killed and sixty-one 
wounded. Of the Tenth Regiment only one platoon of Company B, and 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 265 

the Pioneers under command of Captain Thomas MoConnell were engaged, 
and they were so fortunate as to meet with no loss, though performing well 
a very important part, and occasioning great loss and demoralization to 
the enemy. This detachment was sent by Colonel McCalmont to observe 
and if opportunity offered attack the right flank of the enemy. It succeeded 
in getting possession of a washout or ravine in the thick, pine woods, 
close up on the flank of the Eleventh Virginia and Tenth Alabama regi- 
ments, which were engaged with the Bucktails in their front, and at once 
opened a very destructive fire, which doubtless hastened the departure of 
those regiments from that part of the field. 

On the 10th of March, 1862, participating in the general advance of the 
Army of the Potomac, the division moved out to Hunter's Mills; Center- 
ville and the line of Bull Run having been abandoned by the rebels, the 
Pennsylvania Reserves were ordered to Alexandria, and marched to reach 
that destination by a circuitous route, over fields of mud, during a day 
of constant snow and rain. This march was always remembered as one 
of the times of unmitigated discomfort and exposure, in the experience of 
the regiment. The division halted near Fairfax Seminary, being assigned 
to the First Army Corps, of which Major-General Irvin McDowell was 
commander, and remained near Alexandria while the other corps were em- 
barking for the Peninsula. The First Army Corps was originally com- 
posed of the divisions commanded by Generals Franklin, McCall and King. 
Franklin's Division was sent to Yorktowa in April and became the First 
Division, Sixth Army Corps. April 10, the Third Brigade, Pennsylvania 
Reserves, marched by way of Fairfax Court House and Centerville, cross- 
ing Bull Run at Blackburn's Ford, and arrived at Manassas on the 11th. 
The Tenth Regiment was assigned quarters in a rebel camp about a mile 
southeast of Manassas Station, but in a few days marched to Catlett's, 
where it endured neai'ly three weeks of extremely disagreeable weather, 
and on May 4, to Falmouth via Hartwood Church. Though out of season, 
some bee products and some turkeys were confiscated on this march, even 
the dignified colonel of the Tenth Regiment being said to have been im- 
plicated in the turkey business. 

After a few days near Falmouth, the Tenth Regiment moved to the 
vicinity of Potomac Creek and fitted up a camp in very fine style, the 
other regiments of the brigade doing likewise. Heavy details were here em- 
ployed in cutting and hauling timber, building bridges and repairing the rail- 
road from Aquia Creek Landing on the Potomac to Fredericksburg and be- 
yond. These, with drill, guard and picket, kept the men very fully em- 
ployed. Here the brigade lost the leadership of General Ord, who was pro- 
moted to be a major-general and assigned to the command of a new division 
attached to the First Army Corps. Brigadier-General Truman Seymour was 
assignd to command the brigade, a change of commanders that was never 
appreciated by the command. 

The Tenth Regiment also lost its honored chief. Colonel McCalmont's 
personal affairs rendered it imperative that he should resign, and much to 
the regret of both officers and men, he was mustered out of the service. 
Lieutenant-Colonel Kirk became colonel, and Captain A. J. Warner of 
Company G was promoted to lieutenant-colonel. 



266 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

June 13th, the Tenth Regiment embarked on the Rappahannock river 
above Port Royal, on the steamer Thomas Jefferson and the schooner T. 
Raymond which was towed by the steamer. There was considerable 
novelty in the trip, occupying most of two days, down the Rappahannock, 
both steamer and schooner often finding the bottom of the river. On the 
morning of the 16th, the Tenth landed at White House, on the Pamunkey, 
and marched out the railroad, passing Turstall's Station, just missing J. E. 
B. Stuart's cavalry in its famous raid around the Army of the Potomac. 
The Third Brigade was here temporarily reduced to three regiments, the 
Sixth Regiment being detached to guard the railroad. June 18th, the divi- 
sion marched from Dispatch Station up the north side of the Chickahominy, 
and passing Porter's Provisional Fifth Army Corps, at Gaines' Mill, took 
post at the advance of the right wing of the army, on Beaver Dam run, 
about a half mile east of the village of MechanicsvUle, which village 
(entirely deserted by its inhabitants) was occupied by our pickets as their 
resei've post, and is only five miles from Richmond. The intrenchments 
and camps of the rebels were in plain view across the Chickahominy. 

Some small earthworks were thrown up by the Third Brigade along the 
east bank of the Beaver dam, and the timber bordering that stream mostly 
cut down, the enemy meanwhile keeping us stirred up by an occasional shot 
or shell, which they could throw from their works beyond the Chickahominy 
entirely over our camps. 

In the afternoon of June 26, the rebel divisions of D. H. Hill and A. P. 
Hill, having crossed the Chickahominy above and at MechanicsvUle, cap- 
turing most of the pickets, appeared on the high ground west of the Beaver 
dam, and soon advanced furiou.sly to attack our position. Our line was 
held by the First Brigade, General John F. Reynolds, on the right, on 
its left two companies, A and B of the Tenth, then the Twelfth Regiment 
completing the line to the Chickahominy flats, on our left. The other com- 
panies of the Tenth and Ninth regiments were in reserve, and the Second 
Brigade, General George G. Meade, held the line of the Chickahominy to 
left and rear. Archer's and Field's brigades of A. P. Hill's Division, 
attempted to carry the right of the line, and Ripley's and bri- 
gades of D. H. HUl's, were hurled against our left. At every point they 
were most severely repulsed, the First North Carolina and Forty-fourth 
Georgia regiments of Ripley's Brigade meeting with losses exceeded in very 
few instances during the war. Official report gives loss of Forty-fourth 
Georgia as three hundred and twenty-five killed and wounded in this en- 
gagement. The whole rebel loss was one thousand three hundred and sixty- 
five killed and wounded, and that of the Pennsylvania Reserves, the only 
troops engaged on the Union side, was two hundred and fifty-six killed 
and wounded, and one hundred and five missing, the missing including the 
captured pickets. Next morning the division marched back about four 
miles, and rested behind the lines of Morrell's Division at Gaines' Mill. The 
rebels, reinforced by I.,ongstreet's Division and the three divisions under 
Jackson, followed the movement closely, and in the afternoon assailed 
Morrell's and Sykes' positions in heavy force, bringing on one of the most 
stubbornly contested battles of the war. The regiments of the Third Bri- 
gade were sent into action separately, as their presence seemed to be 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 267 

needed to support the hard-pressed front line. The Tenth, going to the 
assistance of GrifRn's Brigade, took a gallant part in repulsing repeated 
assaults of Pender's, Gregg's and Anderson's brigades of A. P. Hill's 
Division, holding its ground until late in the evening, when, with ammuni- 
tion exhausted and ranks sadly thinned, the whole line was forced to 
give way, before the overwhelming onslaught made upon it by Longstreet's, 
Jackson's and AVhiting's divisions. The loss suffered by the Tenth Regi- 
ment at Gaines' Mill was numerically the greatest it ever sustained, al- 
though the percentage of loss out of number engaged was much greater 
at Manassas, and also at Fredericksburg, and was the heaviest of any 
regiment in the division except the Eleventh — being forty killed and one 
hundred severely wounded. During the night of the 27th Porter's com- 
mand crossed the Chickahominy to Trent's Hill, where we remained during 
the following day. On the 29th, marched, passing Savage's Station and 
White Oak Swamp, to Charles City Cross Roads, called also Glendale, 
where, on the 30th, the Tenth Regiment was again engaged with the 
enemy, performed with entire success the difficult manoeuvre of making a 
left half wheel, under a heavy fire of artillery, and in the presence of an 
attacking column of infantry, and immediately charging, completely broke 
up the Seventeenth Virginia Regiment of Kemper's Brigade, capturing 
nearly half its number, and itself suffering very slight loss in doing so. 
But, a little later, by somebody's blunder or want of judgment, it was 
placed in an exposed and untenable position, where it suffered severe loss. 
Its loss this day was twenty-four killed and forty severely wounded. July 
1, the division enjoyed the position of lookers-on at the battle of Malvern 
Hill, and at night led the army in its march to Harrison's Landing, on 
the James river. Here it rested, suffering from the heat of the weather 
and the badness of the water — all who were there doubtless remember 
vividly the pork-barrel wells that were dug, also the shelling by the "rebs" 
from the south side of the James, on the night of July 31. After the latter 
occurrence the Third Brigade was sent across the river, and spent a pleasant 
week at Coggin's Point, the old Edmund RufRn plantation. 

On the withdrawal of the Army of the Potomac from Harrison's Land- 
ing we embarked on a steamer, two regiments, Tenth and Seventh on one 
boat, landed at Aquia Creek August 19, and were at once transported by 
rail to Fredericksburg. Late in the evening of the 21st the division, now 
commanded by General John F. Reynolds, started out upon what tried 
to the utmost its powers of endurance — the march to Warrenton, to join 
the army of General Pope. We rested at Warrenton until afternoon of 
August 27, 1862, when departure was taken in haste by the old turnpike 
toward Bull Run and Centreville, the division again forming part of the 
First Army Corps — commanded by Major-General McDowell. We came 
in contact with the enemy on the morning of the 28th near Gainesville and 
again in the afternoon, and in the night made a long circuitous march 
nearly to Manassas and back nearly to the Henry House on the old battle- 
field of Bull Run. 

On the 29th the Third Brigade especially was used as a detachment to 
feel for the enemy's position in front of the left of Pope's army and 
open communication with Fitz John Porter's command should it advance 



268 Pennsylvania at Oettyshurg. 

upon the enemy. On the afternoon the Third Brigade with General G. K. 
Warren's Brigade of the E"'ifth Corps and McLean's Brigade of Sigel's 
Corps were the only infantry left on the south side of the pike, and bore 
the brunt of the overwhelming charge of Longstreet's whole corps. The 
loss suffered here by these brigades testify to the fact that they did all 
that men could do to hold their ground. The Tenth lost in this battle 
twenty-two killed or mortally wounded and about forty others wounded. 
The last day of the month was spent at Centerville, the division picketing 
along Cub run at night. September 1, we reached Chantilly late in the 
evening, and in an outpour of rain halted in support of Kearny's Division, 
in the engagement in which that dashing leader lost his life. Next day 
marched from Fairfax Court House to Arlington, where we rested until 
the night of the 6th during which we marched again, crossing Long Bridge, 
and through the city of Washington to Leesboro, Md. After here receiving 
some much-needed supplies, our march was continued northward, and on 
the evening of the 13th we bivouacked at the crossing of the Monocacy by 
the Frederick pike. Next day pushed forward through Frederick and 
Middletown, and in the afternoon took an active part in dislodging the 
enemy from his formidable position on South Mountain. At the foot of 
the mountain the division filed off to the right about a mile, and charging 
up the face of the ridge quickly dislodged the enemy, completely dispersing 
Rodes' Alabama Brigade. Loss in regiment, seven killed, and thirteen 
wounded. Next morning followed the retreating rebels to the Antietam 
just beyond Keedysville. 

After waiting until the evening of the 16th, the First Corps, which since 
leaving Washington had been commanded by General Joseph Hooker, 
moved up the creek a short distance, crossed by a stone bridge, pushed 
on to the Hagerstown and Sharpsburg pike, and Meade's Division being in 
advance, we got sharply into action with the enemy just before dark, and 
the opposing line of battle passed the night only a few yai-ds apart. The 
attack by Hooker's Corps was resumed at dawn on the 17th, King's Di- 
vision going to the front, immediately followed by the Third Brigade of 
Meade's, and at once began the bloodiest forenoon's work of the war. 
Fortunately for the Tenth Regiment, the confidence of the corps commander 
either in its reliability or in the skill of its lieutenant-colonel, in a situa- 
tion that might require the exercise of those qualities in unusual degree, 
was here the occasion of our escaping the very fiercest of the conflict. 
Just as it was entering the famous cornfield. Colonel Warner was ordered 
by an aide of General Hooker to move his regiment by the right flank 
across the turnpike, go as far to the right and front as possible, and watch 
the movements of the enemy. This duty it performed, itself suffering but 
little, except the very serious wounding of its gallant commander. 

The regiment encamped near Sharpsburg until the 26th of October, on 
which day it marched to the summit of South Mountain at Crampton's 
Gap, a day and night of experience with mud and rain and fierce searching 
wind on the dreary mountain top. We crossed the Potomac again into 
Virginia, at Berlin, October 30, marched across Loudoun county by way 
of Lovettsville, Philomont, Union and Middleburg to White Plains and 
Warren ton, and sheep and hogs being numerous and in prime condition, we 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 269 

fared as well as at any time during the service. The First Corps moved 
from Fayetteville near Warrenton, November 17, and next evening camped 
at Stafford Court House, soon moving again to Brooke's Station, and 
after some two weeks of extremely cold weather for so early in the season 
spent there, moved on the 6th of December to White Oak Church, from 
whence, at 2 o'clock on the morning of the 11th, we started for the Rappa- 
hannock, the Tenth being detailed to guard the laying of pontoon bridges 
at Franklin's Crossing, about two miles below Fredericksburg. The enemy's 
pickets were quickly driven from the opposite bank and two bridges soon 
completed. The Sixth Corps crossing on them during the afternoon, and 
the First Corps on the 12th ; the latter corps moved down the river to 
Bernard's plantation, where it bivouacked. Nothing was visible on the 
morning of the 1.3th but a most remarkably dense fog. The division how- 
ever moved out across the Bowling Green road finding there the skirmishers 
of the enemy. The lines of the First Corps, which was now commanded 
by General John F. Reynolds, were soon formed, the First Division on the 
left faced nearly east, the Third Division (Pennsylvania Reserves), General 
George G. Meade commanding, on its right fronting nearly to the south at 
almost a right angle with the First, faced the enemy's batteries and lines 
of infantry on the wooded hills beyond the railroad, the Second Division 
on its right extending in the same direction, and the Sixth Corps prolonged 
the line still farther to the right. The assault on the enemy's position was 
made by the Third Division, now consisting of the thirteen old regiments 
of Pennsylvania Reserves and two new regiments, the One hundred and 
twenty-first and One hundred and forty-second regiments Pennsylvania 
Volunteers, incorporated respectively in the First and Second Brigades. 
The First Brigade was deployed on the right, the Third on the left and 
the Second massed in rear of the center. The Tenth Regiment formed the 
extreme left of the line. It had only eight companies in line. Company 
B having been sent out as skirmishers down the Bowling Green road, 
where the cavalry skirmishers of the enemy had become troublesome, and 
Company D being provost guard of division. 

About 2 o'clock they moved forward as steadily and in as complete order 
as though its ranks were not being plowed by shot and shell from the 
enemy's batteries. The distance to be traversed was about a half mile 
over a treeless plain, which was found to be crossed by fences bordered 
with briars, and a wide ditch about five feet deep with nearly perpendicular 
sides, and water and ice at the bottom, but these obstacles scarcely oc- 
casioned a break in the line as it swept on toward the enemy. After cross- 
ing the railroad the Tenth Regiment found itself exposed to a heavy cross- 
fire from the left as well as the fire in its front. In fact the left of our 
line had struck near the center of Archer's Brigade, and the right of that 
command overlapped our left, thus compelling the left of the Tenth to fall 
back to the railroad, which it held, engaging the enemy, and keeping silent 
a section of artillery posted about two hundred yards to its left and front. 
The right of the Third Brigade dislodged the Nineteenth Georgia Regi- 
ment forming the left of Archer's Brigade, almost annihilating it, and 
capturing its colors, and swinging forward to the left, widened the interval 
between it and the left of the First Brigade. This interval was at once 



270 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

occupied by the Second Brigade, which, pushing directly forward, badly 
worsted the famed South Carolina Brigade of General Maxcy Gregg, and 
causing the death of General Gregg. The ground thus wrested from the 
enemy the division held for about two hours, repulsing all attempts of the 
enemy to retake it, until, after nearly half its numbers were killed or 
wounded and its ammunition entirely expended, it retired over the same 
ground it had made its advance, bringing back every one of its colors, 
and also several others taken from the enemy. The division entered the 
engagement with loss than four thousand five hundred men and lost 
therein over two thousand killed, wounded and missing. The Tenth Regi- 
ment, out of about two hundred and iifty engaged, lost eleven killed, eighty- 
one wounded and forty-seven missing, as reported immediately after the 
battle; of the wounded, twelve died of their wounds. Although the Tenth 
did not penetrate the enemy's line as far as some of the other regiments, 
it held most determindedly a position that was all important to the safety 
of the whole division, and it was only by the greatest possible effort that 
the unemployed enemy on its left were held back from closing the gap 
in the rear of those who had advanced into the woods. As a military 
movement, for dash and gallantry in making the advance, for steadi- 
ness and determination in holding a position gained within the lines of 
an enemy much superior in numbers to the attacking force, and especi- 
ally for the adhesiveness shown in retiring without assistance, and with- 
out loss of organization, from so exposed a situation, this charge of 
Meade's Division certainly compares creditably with anything recorded in 
history . 

The division crossed back to the north side of the river on the night of 
the 15th of December, and after a few days moving about settled down in 
a camp among the sand hills near Belle Plain Landing, where it remained, 
with the exception of three days following January 23, 1863, during which 
it participated in the no way pleasant experience of "Burnside's Stuck in 
the Mud," until February 9, when it embarked on the Potomac, and next 
day landed at Alexandria, marched to Minor's Hill, and was employed in 
picketing in front of the fortifications of Washington, until April 20, when 
the Third Brigade moved into Washington, occupied barracks on East 
Capitol street, and up to the 1st of June was engaged in various duties 
pertaining to the Military District of Washington. 

June 1, 1863, the Third Brigade marched to Upton's Hill, and thence, 
on the 25th, along with the First Brigade (the Second being left at Alex- 
andria), sot out to join the Army of the Potomac, coming up with it on 
the 28th at Ballinger's creek near Frederick, Md. The two brigades now 
became the Third Division, Fifth Army Corps, and so remained until 
expiration of their service. June 29, we marched to Liberty, on the 30th 
to Union Mills, Md., and on July 1, crossed into Pennsylvania, and were 
pushed on toward York, so far from Gettysburg that the sound of battle 
did not reach us at all, and we were entirely unaware of the desperate 
conflict going on, until late in the afternoon, when news was received 
that a battle was in progress and that General Reynolds had been killed. 
The news of the death of General Reynolds caused a univer-sal feeling of 
sadness throughout the division, which had known him from the begin 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 271 

uiug as brigade, division aud corps commander, and all honored and re- 
spected him in the very fullest sense. 

Late in the evening of July 1, the head of column of the Fifth Corps 
was turned toward Gettysburg, the Third Division passing through Hanover 
after dark. The weary march was until after midnight, when near the 
village of Bonneauville a halt was made, and the tired soldiers laid down 
and slept by the i-oadside until day, which came at a very early hour. After 
a hasty breakfast the corps was again on the march, and soon came in 
sight of the skirmishers of the enemy, who held possession of that road 
to the town of Gettysburg. We let them keep it, and filed to the left down 
a small stream until we reached the Baltimore turnpike, which we fol- 
lowed toward Gettysburg. After crossing Rock creek the Fifth Corps 
filed off the pike to the left, lay down and rested until about 5 o'clock in 
the evening, at which hour the sound of battle came loud from this part 
of the field. Quickly under arms the corps was soon in motion toward 
the sound, crossing the Taney town road, we ascended the slope of Little 
Round Top, meeting many wounded from the battle which was fiercely 
raging beyond the hill. 

The First and Second Divisions had preceded us, and the Third Brigade 
of each had been left to hold Tattle Round Top and drive the enemy from 
the rocky valley between the two hills, while the other brigades had passed 
on to the wooded broken ground and the wheat field beyond. 

A wonderful scene met the gaze of the Pennsylvania Reserves when they 
reached the crest of Little Round Top. It was near the close of what 
General Longstreet has denominated "the best two hours' fighting that 
ever took place on this planet." It was the moment just before exhaustion 
of the tremendous and desperate effort by the divisions of Hood, McLaws 
and Anderson, comprising thirteen brigades of the very flower of the rebel 
army, under the personal direction of Generals Lee and Longstreet, to 
crush the left wing of the Union army, and gain possession of Little Round 
Top. It should be remarked that the brigades of the rebel ai'my at this 
time were just about one-third heavier than those of ours. The two being 
nearly equal in numbers, theirs was composed of thirty-eight infantry regi- 
ments and ours of fifty-one. So that while our brigades averaged about 
one thousand and five hundred men, theirs exceeded two thousand. In re- 
pelling this mighty assault there had been engaged the six brigades of the 
Third Corps, four brigades of First Division, Second Corps, and five bri- 
gades of the Fifth Corps. 

When the Pennsylvania Reserves looked down the western slope of Little 
Round Top, the skirmishers of the enemy were almost at its foot and his 
somewhat broken and disordered but exultant lines not far in their rear. 
The First Brigade dashed down the slope, deploying as it went, drove back 
the skirmishers and nearest brigade of the enemy, and the mighty effort 
put forth to wring from the Union army the key to its position was over, 
and with it had passed the highest wave of the rebellion. From those two 
hours fighting — 5 to 7 o'clock, July 2, 1863, may be dated the commence- 
ment of its ebb-tide. When the First Brigade charged down the slope of 
Little Round Top, the Third Brigade was sent to the left into the valley 
at the foot of the larger hill, the Ninth and Tenth regiments foi-niing line 



272 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

of battle perhaps over one hundred yards in rear of the position marked 
by the stone wall which they subsequently built and which is marked by 
their monuments, and the Fifth and Twelfth regiments dislodged part of 
Law's Alabama Brigade and occupied the summit of Big Round Top. At 
daylight next morning the Tenth Regiment advanced to the position now 
marked, and at once commenced and in surprisingly short time completed 
the construction of this wall ; in pushing back the skirmishers of the 
enemy from this position, two men of the Tenth were killed and three 
wounded. The sharpshooters of the enemy, under cover of the rocks and 
trees, were very troublesome, but volunteers from the Tenth were ready 
to meet them, and they were very soon receiving as good as they sent. 
Major J. C. Rogers, commanding the Fifth Texas immediately in our front, 
says in his report, "just before day on the morning of the 3d orders reached 
me that breastworks must be thrown up and the position held. During 
the daj' constant skirmishing was kept vip with the enemy which resulted 
in the loss to us of many of our best scouts." 

On the 5th of July the regiment marched in pursuit of the enemy, with 
whom we came up and skirmished on the 12th and 13th near St. James 
College and WiUiamsport, Md. The rebels having escaped across the Po- 
tomac, we marched back over South Mountain and on the 17th of July 
again crossed into Virginia at Berlin. Here Colonel Warner, who — though 
suffering from his wound received at Antietam to a degree that would 
have entirely disabled almost any other man — had up to this commanded 
the regiment, gave up the command to Lieutenant-Colonel J. B. Knox. 
July 23, we reached Manassas Gap or Wapping Heights, where we ad- 
vanced over the summit of the Blue Ridge in line of battle, but the enemy 
retired without causing us any loss. From the gap we marched to War- 
renton (blackberries being all the provender in sight), then on down by 
Fayetteville to Rappahannock Station, where we rested until the 16th of 
September, when advance was made, the Fifth Corps locating beyond 
Culpoper, and again we took things easy in a very pleasant camp until 
the 10th of October. The rebel army then commenced, a movement by 
way of Warren ton, toward our rear. We got into action with Hill's Corps 
at Bristoe on the 14th. The enemy in his eagerness to attack the Fifth 
Corps which was in a rather exposed position, exposed himself to the Second 
Corps, and lost heavily ; two brigades, Cooke's and Kirklands of Heth's 
Division, being almost annihilated and a battery captured. The Tenth 
Regiment here performed the duty of rear guard of the Fifth Corps, hold- 
ing the enemy in check while the corps withdrew toward Manassas. Its 
loss was one killed and two wounded. We retired to Manassas, then re- 
turned to Bristoe after night, to assist the withdrawal of the Second Corps, 
then again passed Manassas, crossed Bull Run to Blackburn's Ford and next 
morning were at Centerville. In the advance which followed we 
marched by way of Bull Run battlefield and Greenwich to Warrenton Junc- 
tion, where we halted from October 21 to November 7, when the Fifth and 
Sixth Corps advanced to Rappahannock Station, a brigade of the Sixth as- 
saulting the enemy's entrenchments captured almost entire Hays' and 
Hoke's brigades of Early's Division, one thousand six hundred men with 
their arms, a battery and pontoon bridge. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. • 273 

Crossing the Rappahannock at Kelly's Ford we moved out to Mountain 
run, and occupied new and commodious quarters just built by Battle's 
Alabama Brigade, but loft them on the morning of the 26th of November, 
on which day we crossed the Rapidan, at Culpeper Mine Ford, and bivou- 
acked that night at the junction of the Germanna and Orange Plank Roads ; 
next day marched by old Plank road toward Orange Court House, and in 
the afternoon came up with Gregg's Cavalry Division engaged with the 
enemy at New Hope Church, and at once proceeded to take part, but, 
thanks to good luck or good dodging, none of the Tenth were seriously hurt. 

Next day moved to the right to where the old Fredericksburg and Orange 
Court House turnpike crosses Mine Run. On the 29th remained in posi- 
tion, looked at rebs building works on their side of the run and worked some 
at same on ours . The morning of the 30th was extremely cold ; moved very 
early about two miles to right, where Fifth and Sixth Corps massed and 
prepared to assault the enemy's works, but to the great satisfaction of 
everybody the order to attack was countermanded and we returned to the 
position of the previous day. December 1 continued to fortify, and so did 
the enemy. The Tenth was on the skirmish line, was relieved after dark 
and started to the rear by the old turnpike, recrossed the Rapidan at 
Germanna Ford at daylight, and crossed the Rappahannock at Kelly's Ford 
and continuing on to Warren ton Junction, there built winter quarters and 
went to guarding the railroad. After changing several times, the Tenth 
finally was located, December 30, 1863, to pass the winter at Manassas. 
Divided into detachments to guard the railroad we were constantly an- 
noyed by guerrillas, by whom at one time two men were wounded and cap- 
tured, and two were killed April 15, 1864. 

During the winter one hundred and twenty men of the regiment re- 
enlisted, and were given furlough for thirty-five days. April 29, the Tenth 
Regiment bade final farewell to Manassas, and on the 30th crossed the 
Rappahannock, and joined the Fifth Corps near Stevensburg. 

Very early in the morning of the 4th of May, the Fifth Corps (now in- 
cluding the First) set out for its last trip across the Rapidan, crossing 
it about noon at Germanna Ford, it pushed on to old Wilderness Tavern. 
Next morning Third Division started on by a cross-road toward Parker's 
Store, but soon came up with the enemy, and after some skirmishing fell 
back nearly to the old tavern. On morning of 6th, pushed to the front 
on both sides of the turnpike, capturing a heavy line of skirmishers, until 
we found ourselves facing a line of earthworks and in a very exposed posi- 
tion. Here we held on, however, until evening, losing five killed and several 
severely wounded, among the latter, very unfortunately, being Colonel Ayer, 
and from this time Adjutant G. W. McCracken was virtually commander 
of the regiment. After dark moved at double-quick down the Germanna 
road to support Sixth Corps, which had been attacked and Seymour's and 
Shaler's brigades captured, but returned later in the morning, crossed Wil- 
derness run and lay quiet until night. 

Then the Fifth Corps pulled out, crossed the old Plank road, passing 
along the lines of the Second Corps lying in their entrenchments along the 
Brock road, passed the cavalry just at daylight at Todd's Tavern, and 
then commenced pushing back the enemy's cavalry, and clearing the road 



274 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

of obstructions, which continued until we crossed the Ny river and found 
ourselves in the presence of and sharply engaged with Longstreet's Corps 
in front of Spottsylvania Court House. That evening, I\Iay 8th, the Third 
Division, supported by the First, charged upon the enemy. We advanced 
through thick woods until dark, got into the enemy's line, engaged in 
numerous hand-to-hand encounters, and lost a good many men reported 
missing, most of whom doubtless were killed, as they were never heard 
from afterward. Those who were captured were very fortunate in being 
recaptured next day by the cavalry at Beaver Dam Station. The Tenth 
was engaged with the enemy every day and almost every night for a week, 
tin this northwest side of Spotsylvania Court House ; then during the rainy 
and exceedingly dark night of the 14th of May, moved around to the 
east and put in another week, but without being quite so constantly en- 
gaged. Loss in all these actions, twenty-iive killed and sixty wounded. 
Pulling out to Guiney's Station on the 20th, we took the Richmond road, 
crossed the North Anna river at Jericho Mills on the 23d, and had a brisk 
fight, losing two killed. Next afternoon the division pushed down between 
the river and enemy and covered the crossing of the Ninth Corps. Next 
morning pushed forwai'd still farther down the river, and during 25th and 
26th confronted enemy's works — at a distance of two hundred to three hun- 
dred yards. 

During night of 26th withdrew to north side of North Anna, and started 
down the river, crossed the Pamunkey at Hanover Ferry, and on the 29th 
pushed out to Totopotomoy creek where the Tenth skirmished with the 
enemy, being on picket line that night. Next forenoon were relieved by 
Ninth Corps, and, crossing the creek, we joined the division near the 
Mechanicsville road. Skirmishing was going on, and as soon as we came 
up we were ordered to the skirmish line to take the place of the Fifth 
Regiment which, armed with smooth-bore muskets, was unable to drive 
the enemy's skirmishers. The Tenth at once deployed and moved forward 
to the skirmish line where we found the Bucktails deployed to our right. 
The whole line was ordered forward, and forward it went driving before 
it a heavy line of rebel skirmishers, and followed by the division in line 
of battle which halted and threw up some slight breastworks near Bethesda 
Church. The skirmishers kept on for nearly a mile over open fields and 
then across a narrow swamp, when they found a line of earthworks facing 
then at not more than one hundred and fifty yards distance ; over these 
works at once came the enemy in force ; that the Tenth Regiment got 
out of that strip of woods, and back over open fields three hundred to 
four hundreds yards wide, before any cover was reached, has always seemed 
a piece of wonderful good fortune. But it did so without having a man 
seriously hurt, and losing only two captured. The skirmishers rallied with 
their brigades, who had hastily thrown together some rails for breastworks, 
and the enemy, two brigades of Ewell's Corps, following them up, were re- 
ceived with a fire that almost annihilated them. One of these was the 
famed old Stonewall Brigade, its commander, Colonel J. B. Terrill, falling 
about one hundred yards in front of the Tenth Regiment. For destruc- 
tiveness to the enemy, coupled with slight loss to ourselves, this engage- 
ment at Bethesda Church was very much like those of Dranesville and 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 275 

Mechanicsville. The Teuth lost one man mortally wounded. This ended 
the services of the Tenth Regiment. Next morning it received the follow^- 
ing order: 

"Headquarters Futh Army Corps^ May 31, 1SG4. 
"Special Orders No. — . 

"2. In issuing the order for the return of the Pennsylvania Reserves, 
whose term of service expires to-day, the general commanding begs leave 
to express to them his great satisfaction at their heroic conduct in this 
arduous campaign. As their commander he thanks them for their willing 
and efficient efforts, and congratulates them that their successful engage- 
ment of yesterday, closing their term of service and long list of battles 
bravely fought, is one they can ever remember with satisfaction and pride. 

"By command of Major-General Warren. 

"A. S. Marvin, Jr., A. A. CI " 

The total enrollment of the Tenth Regiment Pennsylvania Reserves was 
one thousand one hundred and sixty officers and men. Of these one hun- 
dred and sixty were killed in battle or died of wounds, thirty-one died of 
disease or accident, twenty-eight deserted or were dishonorably discharged, 
forty were transferred to cavalry or artillery service in the regular army 
or to the Veteran Reserve Corps, forty-two were discharged by order 
mostly to accept commissions in other organizations, two hundred and 
seventy-one were discharged for disability largely caused by wounds, two 
hundred and sixty-one were transferred to the One hundred and ninetieth 
and One hundred and ninety-first regiments Pennsylvania Veteran Volun- 
teers, two full companies, I and K, of the One Hunded and Ninety-First 
being entirely composed of veterans and recruits of the Tenth Regiment, 
and three hundred and twenty-seven were mustered out at Pittsburgh, June 
11, 1864. 

Of the two thousand and forty-seven regiments in the Union army during 
the rebellion the Tenth Regiment stands forty-fifth of those sustaining the 
greatest percentage of loss in battle to total enrolment, its loss in killed 
and mortally wounded being nearly fourteen per cent, of enrolment. And 
this loss was not (as was the case with some organizations suffering 
heavy losses) occasioned by any overwhelming disaster, but in every in- 
stance represented hard fighting in which the enemy had no particular ad- 
vantage. In fact wherever there was marked advantage the enemy had 
far the worst of it. This was unmistakably true at Dranesville, at Me- 
chanicsville, at South Mountain, and last but not least at Bethesda Church. 

Of the forty-seven regiments of the Union army suffering the largest 
percentage of loss in killed and died of wounds, forty belonged to the Army 
of the Potomac; twelve of them to the First and Fifth Corps, and four of 
them being regiments of the Pennsylvania Reserve Corps. It is also worthy 
of remark that eleven of the forty-seven were Pennsylvania regiments. 

The loss of the Tenth Regiment by disease was the smallest of any 
three-years' regiment in the entire army. In the Union Army according to 
statistics compiled by the War Department, the aggregate number of men 
enrolled was two million seven hundred and seventy-eight thousand three 



276 Pennsylvania at Oettyshurg. 

hundred aud three, and the aggregate number of deaths from all causes, 
three hundred and iifty-nine thousand five hundred and twenty-eight ; 
nearly thirteen per cent, of total enrolment. Pennsylvania furnished three 
hundred and thirty-seven thousand nine hundred and thirty-six men, of 
whom there died from all causes, thirty-three thousand one hundred and 
eighty-three; less than ten per cent. The killed or mortally wounded of 
the entire army numbered one hundred and ten thousand and seventy ; not 
quite four per cent. Pennsylvania troops lost in killed or mortally wounded, 
fifteen thousand two hundred and sixty-five; nearly four and a half per cent. 
Died of disease, entire army, two hundred and twenty-four thousand eight 
hundred and eighty-six, a little less than eight per cent.; of Pennsylvania 
.soldiers, there died of disease, fifteen thousand nine hundred and one; 
about four and three-fourths per cent. Thus we see that while the loss 
of Pennsylvania soldiers by the missUes of the enemy was heavier in pro- 
portion to numbers than that of the whole army, their losses from disease 
were only about half the average. And in the case of the Pennsylvania 
Reserves this difference is still more marked. The loss in killed and mor- 
tally wounded in the thirteen infantry regiments of Pennsylvania Re- 
serves was one thousand five hundred and ninety-three, a little more than 
ten per cent, of the whole enrolment of the division; while' those who died 
of disease, including the unfortunates starved in Anderson ville and other 
prison pens of the South, numbered seven hundred and fifty, or less than 
five per cent. — just reversing the common statement that in armies two 
men die of disease for every one killed in battle. But the experience of the 
Tenth Regiment was the most marked of all in this respect; the losses 
of the Tenth Regiment Pennsylvania Reserves in the twenty-two engage- 
ments in which it participated, were one hundred and sixty killed or mor- 
tally wounded out of the aggregate enrolment of one thousand one hundred 
and sixty, nearly fourteen per cent., while the deaths from disease, including 
those in southern prison pens, were only thirty-one, being less than two and 
three-fourths per cent, of the enrolment — or less than one-fifth as many died 
of disease as were killed in battle, 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

40™ REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

(Eleventh Reserves) 
ADDRESS OF BREVET BRIGADIER-GENERAL S. M. JACKSON 

THE battle of Chancellorsville had been fought and lost, and the Army 
of the Potomac, battered and broken, but not conquered, recrossed 
the Rappahannock and took up its old position on Stafford Heights, 
in'the rear of Falmouth. 

The southern press and people clamored for northern invasion, and even 
the rank and file of the Army of Northern Virginia joined in this general 
outcry . 



♦Organized at Pittsburgh in June, 1851, to serve three years. It was mustered out 
•Tune 13, 1864, by reason of expiration of term of service. 



/. 



:'',1^^j 




Pennsylvania at Gettyshurfj. 277 

This, together with the overflowing gninaries and storehouses of Mary- 
land and southern Pennsylvania, doubtless induced General Lee to under- 
take the campiiigu which proved so fatal to the Confederate cause. 

Longstreet with his thirty thousand veterans was ordered up from North 
Carolina, and by the stimulus of invasion, conquest and plunder, the thinned 
ranks of the Confederate army were refilled, and General Lee with his 
boasted hundred thousand invincibles started on the memorable Gettysburg 
campaign . 

He moved up the south bank of the Rappajiannock river, whilst General 
Hooker, at the head of the Army of the Potomac, moved in a parallel line 
up the north bank, like two sparring pugilists, each watching for a favorable 
opportunty to strike the other. 

This sparring continued until Lee struck the foot hills of the Blue Ridge 
Mountains, through which he passed and placed this natural barrier be- 
tween him and his foe. He then proceeded north along the western slope 
of the Blue Ridge, while Hooker moved leisurely along the eastern slope, 
keeping between the Confederate army and the city of Washington. Lee 
with his army crossed the Potomac river near Williamsport, Md., while 
Hooker crossed about twenty-five miles further south, at Edwards' Ferry. 
On reaching Maryland, the South Mountain range completely separated the 
two contending armies, and by guarding the few passes through this range, 
the movements of the one army was thoroughly hidden from the other. 

Hooker concentrated the Army of the Potomac in the valley of the 
Monocacy, a few miles south of the city of Frederick. The Pennsylvania 
Reserve Division having been recalled from the Army of the Potomac early 
in 1863 to the defenses of Washington, was located at different points 
within the Washington department, except the Second Brigade which had 
been ordered to West Virginia . 

The Eleventh Regiment, which I had the honor to command, was sta- 
titmed at Vienna, Va., a small village some twenty-five miles south of 
Washington on the Leesburg and Alexandria railroad. Brigadier-General 
S. W. Crawford, a Pennsylvanian, but an old army veteran, had just been 
assigned to the command of the division, and under his order we broke camp 
on June 2.5, 1863, and started to join the Army of the Potomac. 

We moved by way of Dranesville, Va., crossed the Potomac at Ed- 
wards' Ferry, and reached the camps of the army on the evening of June 
26, the same day that General Hooker had been relieved, and General 
George G. Meade had been designated by the President as Commander of 
the Army of the Potomac. 

Meade's appointment to this important command was received with much 
mistrust by many of the old officers and men of the army, as he was a 
comparative stranger to most of them, but well known to every officer 
and man in the Pennsylvania Reserves, having entered the service in 1861 
as commander of the Second Brigade, and remaining with us as brigade 
and division commander through the Peninsular, Second Bull Run, South 
Mountain, Antitam and Fredericksburg campaigns. 

True he had been in command of the Fifth Army Corps, a short time, 
but had gained no particular notoriety in this position. The announcement 



19 



278 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

of his appointment was made just as v/e reached the outer camps of the 
army and our men shouted themselves hoarse over the welcome news. 

Doubtless this demonstration on our part had something to do with the 
marching of our division through the camps of the army that evening, 
and I am satisfied that it created a feeling of confidence among the officers 
and men of the army, in the ability of the new commander. 

After reaching our camp that evening, a number of the officers rode over 
to army headquarters to pay our respects to our old commander, and to 
congratulate him on his distinguished promotion. 

We found him in close conference with Generals Reynolds, Hancock, 
Sedgwick and others. He seemed delighted in welcoming us back to the 
army. Thanked us for our congratulations, but said that he did not know 
whether he was a subject for congratulation, or commiseration. He appeared 
anxious and showed that he fully realized the responsibility of his position. 
He said however that he had all confidence in the bravery of the officers 
and men of the army and felt assured that we would achieve a glorious 
victory in the coming conflict. 

That, doubtless, was a sleepless night to the new commander, for before 
the sun rose the next morning the order directing the movements which 
culminated in the battle of Gettysburg had been prepared and sent out to 
all the subordinate commanders. 

Our division was designated as the Third Division of the Fifth Army 
Corps, then under command of Major-Geueral George Sykes. The orders 
directed the movement of the army from Frederick City in three columns. 
The left column under General Reynolds, consisting of the First, Third 
and Eleventh Corps, was to move by way of Emmitsburg direct to Gettys- 
burg. The center column, consisting of the Second, Fifth and Twelfth 
corps, was to move in the direction of Hanover, Pa., and under the eye 
and immediate direction of the commanding general. The right column, 
consisting of the Sixth Corps under General John Sedgwick, was to move 
in the directior of Westminster, Md. Just before crossing the State line, 
which we did near Union town, Md., the commanding general issued a 
general order directing corps, division, brigade and regimental commanders, 
to address their troops on the importance of every man performing his whole 
duty in the coming conflict, that an expectant nation was looking to the 
Army of the Potomac to drive the ruthless invaders from the free soil of 
Pennsylvania, and keep the scene of war away from northern homes. 

On the receipt of this order General Crawford called together his brigade 
and regimental commanders, and here, for the first time, I made the ac- 
quaintance of the lately-appointed regimental commanders of the division. 

The brigade commanders were William McCaudless of the Second Regi- 
ment and Joseph W. Fisher of the Fifth, both of whom have gained some 
civil notoriety since the war, both having served as State Senators. Mc- 
Candless as Secretary of Internal Affairs of Pennsylvania and Fisher as 
Chief -Justice of the Territory of Wyoming. 

The regimental commanders were as follows: First Regiment, Colonel W. 
Cooper Talley ; Second Regiment, Lieutenant-Colonel P. McDonough ; Fifth 
Regiment, Lieutenant-Colonel George Dare, afterwards killed in the battle 
of the Wilderness; Sixth Regiment, Colonel A. J. Warner; Eleventh Regi- 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. ' 279 

nient, conmmudcd by myself; Twelfth Kegiment, Cdlonel .M . D. ILu'diu, 
now on the retired list of the regular army as brigadier-general ; Thirteenth 
or Bucktails, Colonel Charles F. Taylor (brother of the renowned Bayard 
Taylor), who was killed three days later leading his regiment in Ihe memor- 
able charge from Little Hound Top. 

General Crawford read to us this late order of the comiiiandiiig general 
and urged upon us the necessity of arousing our men to a full sense of 
their duty, to exert their every effort in the protection of their homes and 
firesides, since they were now on the soil of their native State. Colonel 
Fisher, our brigade commander, always anxious for an opportunty to make 
a speech, called out the brigade and gave us a most excellent and eloquent 
talk, which seemed to arouse the men very much at the time, but the long 
night march before reaching Gettysburg took much of the spasmodic pa- 
triotism out of the boys. 

On the morning of July 1, 1863, we left our camp about 5 o'clock and 
moved rapidly in the direction of Hanover which point we reached about 
5 p. m. During the afternoon we heard heavy firing toward our left and 
thereby knew that General Reynolds had struck the enemy. Just before 
reaching Hanover we passed over the ground where Kilpatrick had defeated 
the Confederate cavalry the day before. The field showed all the marks 
of a well-contested battle, l)eing strewn over with dead horses, broken 
caissons and sabers, and the accompanying debris of a battlefield. 

On reaching Hanover town the head of the column turned square to the 
left and moved forward rapidly in the direction of Gettysburg. We all 
knew from this that the concentration of the army was to take place on 
General Reynolds' column, which we supposed at this time was in the 
neighborhood of Gettysburg. Darkness came on, yet no signs of a halt 
appeared; on the contrary, the word passed back along the line "keep well 
closed up and press forward." 

The men became tired, footsore and cross; midnight passed, 1 o'clock 
passed, but they longed in vain for the order to halt. Many an exhausted 
soldier dropped out of the ranks, still the order "press forward." Finally 
after passing the village of McSherrystown, Pa., the head of the column 
turned into a meadow on our right and the weary men were directed to lay 
down and rest. Poor fellows, they had hardly touched the ground till they 
were fast asleep, the last sleep on earth for many of them. 

We were called up just as the sun began to crimson the eastern sky and 
moved out in the direction of Gettysburg with the same old order, "press 
forwai-d." As the head of my regiment filed out on the road. General 
Crawford, who had just mounted his horse, called me to him and informed 
me that General Reynolds had been killed in an engagement near Gettys- 
burg the evening before. He told me not to let the men know it, saying 
it was a hard blow on the army and country just at this particular crisis. 

After marching a few miles we were halted and the men were allowed 
to make coffee. We were then moved forward to the rear aijd east of Big 
Round Top where we were halted and ammunition issued to the men. The 
undisturbed quietness in our front was painful, for we all well knew that 
the giants were stripping for the contest, and that the movements for posi- 
tions were now going on. About 4 o'clock in the afternoon a single gun was 



•J80 • Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

fired in the direction of and beyond Big Round Top ; this was followed by 
the sharp rattle of musketry and the heavy booming of artillery. Very soon 
aides and orderlies began to gallop in all directions. One soon found his 
way to division headquarters when General Crawford and his staff quickly 
mounted and the order was passed along to fall in. 

We moved in the I'ear and east of the Round Tops, filed to the left and 
crossed the ridge between Little Round Top and the Cemetei'y. We were 
then moved to the left and took position on the western slope of Little 
Round Top, massed in a battalion front with the Third Brigade leading. 
This formation placed my regiment in the rear of the brigade. We re- 
mained in this position but a short time when the firing became very heavy 
on our left and in the direction of Big Round Top, when a staff oflicer 
rode up and directed Colonel Fisher to move his brigade in that direction 
and aid Colonel Vincent's Brigade in holding that important position. In 
obedience to this order the brigade commenced filing out from the head 
of the column, first the Twelfth Regiment, next the Fifth, and then the 
Tenth which luunasked the right of my regiment. While these movements 
were going on the battle in our front became terrific and very soon we could 
see that our troops were being driven back. At this moment, and just 
as I was about to move off to the left with my regiment. Major Speer of 
the division staff, rode iip and said, "Colonel Jackson, General Crawford 
directs that you remain in position and hold this hill at all hazards." 

In obedience to this order I faced my regiment to the front and moved 
forward to the position just vacated by the Twelfth Regiment, and t)rd:'rod 
the men to lie doAvn and withhold their fire until I would give the com- 
mand. This very trying order was most heroically obeyed as we were 
wholly exposed to the galling fire of the enemy from the direction of Devil's 
Den, and quite a number of my ofiicers and men were here killed and 
wounded. Our position gave us a complete view of much of the day's 
battlefield, including the wheatfield and part of the ]jeach orchard be 
youd, together with the woods on the right and left of the wheatfield 
and the greater portion of Devil's Den, that stronghold so tenaciously held 
by the foe. 

A discouraging, yet sublime view it was about 6 o'clock, that hot July 
afternoon. The enemy forcing back foot by foot the struggling heroes of 
the Third Corps and the First Division of the Fifth Corps, down through 
the wheatfield and the woods on the right and left of the wheatfield, 
while the artillery to our right and left were playing upon them with 
shot and shell Still on they came, a seeming irresistible mass of living 
gray. The First Ohio Battery, commanded by a German captain, had 
gone into action on my left-front, and when it seemed that nothing could 
stop the onward progress of the enemy, this gallant officer became very 
much exercised over the safety of his guns and loudly announced that he 
would be compelled to limber to the rear to save his pieces from capture.. 
I told hini to double-shot his guns, hold his position, and we would see to 
their safety. 

The boys along the line of the regiment hearing this colloquy between 
the- German captain and myself, holloed out, "Stand by your guns, Dutchy, 
and we will stand by you." This seemed to put new confidence in the cap- 



I'ciinsyhvdiiid <il (ictti/sbiir</. 281 

tain, who i-ctiirnod to his guns iind served tlieni most horoioally, inflicting 
friglitfnl execution upon the foe, as li(> pourcMl the shot and shell into their 
very faces. 

All this time my regiment remained (juiet and motionless save in carrying 
back our killed and wounded. The men hugged the ground closely, which, 
by the help of a scrubby growth of pine which stood along the western slope 
of the hill, screened them pretty effectually from the enemy's- view. The 
smoke by this time had literally filled the valley in our front, and it was 
almost impossible to even see the troops It was a trying moment. We 
could with difficulty see a column commencing to ascend the slope, but 
could not tell whether it was our troops retreating, or the enemy advancing. 
Finally two men came up the hill and as they approached us, I inquired 
if the front was clear of our men. They replied, "Yes; those fellows 
(pointing to the line moving up the hill a few rods in our front are John- 
nies." I immediately gave the command to fii'e, which was obeyed with 
alacrity, and we poured a terrible volley into the very faces of the enemy. 
This evidently was a surprise, for they faltered in the onward march and 
began to collect in groups. Their galling fire, however, was kept up on our 
line, particularly from Devil's Den, and I soon realized the fact that the 
only way to hold the hill was to charge foi-ward. Therefore, I gave the 
command to fix bayonets and charge. This order was obeyed with a will 
and, with that familiar yell peculiar to the Pennsylvania Reserves, we 
rushed upon the foe with a determination to either drive the invaders back 
or sacrifice ourselves on our native soil. Our fondest hopes were realized. 
The tide was turned, the enemy broke and fell back in much disorder. 

As we nenred the swamp or run, about midway between Little Round 
Top and the wheatfield, I noticed troops deploying to my right and left 
and observing the well-known Bucktails rushing up in the line with us on our 
l(>ft, I was assured that the regiments of the First Brigade which had 
been laying in rear of us on Little Round Top, had joined us in the charge. 
On nearing the wheatfield fence. General Crawford rode up to the rear 
of my line with hat in hand and complimented the regiment in the most 
extravagant terms, saying, "Colonel Jackson, you have saved the day, your 
regiment is worth its weight in gold ; its weight in gold, sir." He directed 
me to establish my line at the edge of the wheatfield and have temporary 
works thrown up at once. 

In locating my line, I discovered that the Bucktails and First regiments 
were on my left, and the Second and Sixth on ray right. This formation 
placed my regiment in the center of the First Brigade, which position we 
occupied during the remaining days of the battle. 

Just as darkness was closing around us, an officer rode up in rear of my 
line and asked "what command is this?" On telling him that it was the 
Pennsylvania Reserves, he replied that Pennsylvania would support us, 
that he was Colonel Collier of the One hundred and thirty-ninth Pennsyl- 
vania, and that his regiment was directly in our rear and would gladly 
take our place if needed. On looking back I beheld tlic uKmntain side and 
away toward Cemetery Ridge, literally covered with troops. The colonel 
said that was a division of the Sixth Corps, which had just arrived on the 
field. This was the first intimation I had that the Sixth Corps had got 



282 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

up, and it was comfortirji indeed to know that sucli a grand body of true 
and tried troops were on the ground. This fact in itself assured to us the 
victory . 

The position taken at the wheatfield was held throughout the night 
and next day until after Pickett's repulse on Cemetery Ridge, when General 
Meade rode over to the left and directed Colonel McCandless to drive the 
enemy from the woods to the left of the wheatfield, which he did by moving 
his brigade in line to near the top of the hill in the wheatfield, when he 
ordered a left-half wheel and charged up through the woods at a double- 
quick, yelling lustily as we advanced. This forced the enemy to abandon 
their stronghold at Devil's Den, and as we reached the open ground extend- 
ing out to and beyond the Emmitsbui'g road, we saw a large body of the 
enemy moving by iiank at a double-quick, far off to our left, hastening to 
gain their forces in our front beyond the Emmitsburg road. 

Here we remained through the night, and very early on the morning of 
the 4th a terrific rain storm set in which continued the greater portion 
of the day. Along in the afternoon the Sixth Corps was moved out to feel 
the enemy, but beyond a light skirmish line which they quickly dislodged, 
they met no opposition. We were then moved back to near the wheatfield 
from whence we started the evening before, where rations and ammunition 
were issued to the men. 

Thus ended the battle of Gettysburg. The foe was conquered and we 
stood victorious on the field. The record of which shall ever illumine the 
pages of American history, as the greatest battle, both in results and casu- 
alties in proportion to the troops engaged, ever fought on the American con- 
tinent. 



ADDRESS OF BREVET MAJOR H. K. SLOAN. 

THE Pennsylvania Reserve Corps originally consisted of twelve regi- 
ments infantry, one regiment rifles (Bucktails), one regiment cavalry 
and one regiment artillery, in all fifteen regiments, fifteen thousand 
eight hundred enlisted men, field, staff and line. 

After the battle of Fredericksburg, Va., December 13, 1862, the division 
was ordered back to defenses of Washington, D. C. The Third Brigade 
at Minor's Hill. The Eleventh Regiment was ordered from this position 
to Vienna, Va., and lay there until the movement culminating in the battle 
of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, commenced. 

Two brigades, the First, under command of Colonel McCandless, con- 
sisting of Bucktails (First Rifles), First, Second and Sixth infantry regi- 
ments. The Third under command of Colonel Fisher, consisting of 
Twelfth, Fifth [Ninth], Tenth and Eleventh infantry regiments. The 
Second Brigade, consisting of [Third], Fourth. Seventh and Eighth regi- 
ments, were detached from the division. At battle of Gettysburg the First 
and Third brigades formed the Third Division, Fifth Army Corps, under 
command of General S. W. Crawford, the Fifth Army Corps commanded 
by General Sykes. 



Pennsylvdnid itt (icttysihiirf/. 283 

The Eleventh Regiment was at Uniontown, Md., on the morning of July 
1, 1863. Lieutenant-Colonel D. S. Porter, by command of Colonel S. M. 
Jackson, colonel commanding regiment, moved out of bivouac at 5 o'clock 
a. m., with a portion of our regiment (Companies "A," "B," and I think 
other companies but cannot remember number) as a guard for wagon- 
trains, etc. This detail marched with the train until toward sunset, when 
the news was received that the advance of our army was engaged with the 
enemy at Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, and we were ordered to rejoin our 
commands. The trains were ordered to Westminster. We rejoined our 
regiment and marched steadily until 10 or 11 o'clock in the night, when all 
v.'ere tired, sleepy, cross and inquiries were made with all the emphasis 
tired, hungry and sleepy' soldiers could, "When will the officers halt?" etc. — 
cheering was heai'd on the road upon which we were marching, in advance of 
us, on other I'oads running parallel to our road, and the boys 
wondered what those fools were yelling for. The cheering came nearer 
and nearer, increasing in volume, and finally some one at the side of the 
road called out, "Boys, General McClellan is in command," and then for 
the time being, empty stomachs, sleep and fatigue were all forgotten, and 
we joined madly in the cheers. 

Predictions were freely offered that we were going to whip the enemy, 
aye destroy their army, etc. This news helped us along on the weary 
march until about 1 o'clock of the morning of the 2d of July, when tired 
nature asserted its power and men fell out of ranks, even the strongest and 
most energetic gave out and fell into the ditch by the roadside, and lay 
there. This weary and almost intolerable march was continued until 3 
o'clock of the morning of the 2d, when, just after passing through the 
village of McSherrystowu, Pennsylvania, the regiment, having been twenty- 
three hours on the march was turned into what seemed a meadow, on the 
right-hand side of the road, we laid down and slept — were awakened at 
5 o'clock, having had about two hours sleep and rest, and found we were 
laying in a swamp. The coarse swamp grass had served us for a bed, a 
softer bed I do not believe was ever given human beings — being composed 
largely of water. Immediately on being awakened at 5 o'clock a. m., on the 
morning of July 2, 1863, the regiment, being the left of the brigade, moved 
out into the road, and after marching some two or three miles was halted and 
leave given to make coffee and get breakfast. We were given about thirty 
minutes to do this — then the march for Gettysburg began in good earnest. 
I do not know exactly when our brigade struck the Baltimore pike, but I 
remember marching along the Baltimore pike some distance before we 
filed off. The point at which we marched off the Baltimore pike was, I 
think, at what is known as the White Church, at which point, whilst 
marching on the pike to Gettysburg, we filed off the pike and marched 
along a country road for a distance of about one mile, when we were 
marched into a field on right-hand .side of road looking towards Gettys- 
burg, we lay here until about 3.30 or 4 o'clock in the afternoon, when 
orders were received to advance (I do not know where the First Brigade 
of our division was at this time) . Our brigade marched along the same 
road we had entered on leaving the Baltimore pike, passed the rear of Big 
Round Top and passed up onto Little Round Top, when the brigade was 
formed en vkissc battalion front. We were then moved to the right-front 



284 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

of Little Round Top and formed at the foot of the hill towards Gettys- 
burg. This formation for some reason was not satisfactory and we were 
marched back onto the hill close to the artillery on the top of the hill. 
The brigade remained there a short time preserving the same formation, 
viz: en )nas.<ic battalion or regimental front; after a very short interval an 
officer rode up and- directed the brigade to move over and retake Big 
Round Top, that the enemy had or were about to obtain possession of 
that hill. The brigade in obedience to this order was moved rapidly, com- 
mencing on the right. The Twelfth marched around our right and rear — 
as soon as the Twelfth had unmasked the Fifth, that regiment marched and 
the Tenth followed — as soon as the Tenth Unmasked our regiment, Colonel 
Jackson gave the command, "Shoulder arms, right face." At this instant 
an officer rode up, gave the compliments of some general with directions 
that he halt his regiment and hold the bill at all hazards until reinforce- 
ments could be got up. Colonel Jackson, in obedience to this order, gave 
the regiment the order, "front, forward march," and we marched in line of 
battle, to the position which had been held by the Twelfth in our brigade 
formation, on the slope of the hill looking towards the wheatfield, and 
woods to right of wheatfield. The Devil's Den, and woods to left of 
wheatfield, were also in plain view of the position thus taken, and als) 
in direct line of the enemy's fire from Devil's Den. I am positive that at 
this time the Eleventh Regiment, containing about four hundred men and 
officers, was the only infantry on this part of Little Round Top. This regi- 
ment was all of the Third Brigade that engaged in the action from Little 
Round Top. The other regiments, viz: Twelfth, Fifth and Tenth regiments 
having been sent to Big Round Top, as already stated. 

When the regiments reached the position vacated by the Twelfth, Colonel 
Jackson ordered a halt and directed the men to lie down, and further 
ordered the men not to fire under any circumstances until the command to 
open fire should be given by him. This order was obeyed to the letter, 
although the regiment suffered severely from the enemy's fire, directed at 
if from Devil's Den, yet the men bore it with quiet bravery and with a 
fii'm determination to hold the hill in the face of all obstacles and all 
dangers. 

blatters looked gloomy at 6 o'clock oj- thereabouts on that hot afternoon 
of July 2, the enemy driving our forces in our front, a reported taking by 
them of Big Round Top. 

The peach orchard in possession of the enemy, the wheatfield and the 
woods around it and in view of the Devil's Den all in their possession 
and all completely filled with their troops — infantry and artillery, and the 
valley in front and right and left-front of Little Round Top filled with 
smoke, hiding from the view of the few anxious Avatchers on Little Round 
Top, the struggling, suffering and dying combatants below in the valley of 
the shadow of death. 

The enemy's hosts seemed innumerable and unconquerable, and what of 
the little band of infantry and artillery on Little Round Top? They rested 
in quietness awaiting the order they knew must soon come ; removing their 
dead and wounded quietly and in silence, and finally the regulars were 
driven past the base of the hill, but what wonderful bravery did they 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 285 

display! retreat whilst loading — about-face and deliver a fire in the face 
of the enemy. This was grand and inspiring: finally two men came up th" 
hill — Colonel Jackson asked, "How many of our pe()i)ie aic down thereV 
They replied, "not one. Those people you see coming up Uic hill are 
'Johnnies.' " Colonel Jackson then gave the order "Fire." It was obeyed 
and some three or four rounds were fired when Colonel Jackson gave the 
order, "Fix bayonets — charge," etc. This order was obeyed. Allow me to re- 
mark just here—that I was near Colonel Jackson when he received the 
order to hold the hill at all hazards. I was also near him when he gave 
the order to fix bayonets and charge. I would certainly have seen any 
officer giving him the order, and as certainly have heard such an order 
if it had been given to him by anj' one. There were no orders given him 
and therefore am I positive in my belief, and deliberate in my statement, 
when I say, that Colonel Jackson alone determined the action of his regi- 
ment, and of his own motion and as the only possible way to hold that 
hill until reinforcements coidd be got up, gave his order to fix bayonets and 
charge. The charge was made down the hill through the smoke across the 
valley of death to the fence at the wheatfield and in front of woods 
to the right of the road and to the right of the wheatfield. After our 
regiment reached this position, hearing cheering in our rear, I turned, 
looked back, and the Bucktails, that grandest of regiments, composed 
of men who were bravest among the brave, were coming on a double- 
quick. With them came the First, Second and Sixth regiments, the First 
lirigade of our division, and as they came up they formed line of battle 
on the right and left of our regiment as follows: The Bucktails and First 
regiments on our left covering the wheatfield and extending over towards 
Devil's Den, the Sixth and Second regiments on our right extending along 
the stone fence in front of woods on our right. (This is as nearly as I 
can fix the formation of First Brigade and our regiment : our regiment 
being, as nearly as I can remember, in the center of this line of battle.) 
General Crawford, division commander, then rode up and speaking to 
Colonel Jackson said, "Colonel Jackson, your regiment is worth its weight 
in gold, worth its weight in gold, sir." This the general repeated three 
or four times. This was a compliment and all felt proud and were glad 
we were there. 

The line of battle remained in same position along the stone fence until 
the afternoon of 3d of July, when, after the repulse of Pickett's charge. 
General Meade came over to Little Round Top and ordered our line to 
go over and see how many people the enemy had in the woods at the 
head of the wheatfield. The enemy had a battery beyond the woods 
and when we moved over the stone fence into the woods this battery 
opened a close and galling fire. The Sixth Regiment was deployed as 
skirmishers with orders to silence that battery, and the line of battle, con- 
sisting of Second, Eleventh, Bucktails and First regiments, moved diago- 
nally across the wheatfield and just entered the woods beyond it, when 
the order was given to open fire. This was done, and after a few volleys 
(the Sixth having in the meantime silenced the battery) Colonel McCandless 
commanding the First Brigade gave the order "by the rear rank right-about 
face, right-turn, march." This movement when completed threw us on 



286 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

the enemy's right flank, and we drove them in great disorder. The pris- 
oners stated they had six thousand men in their line, whilst we had scarcely 
fifteen hundred men. On we went and finally the- recall was sounded, a 
mistake as we afterwards learned, as no order of that kind was either 
given or thought of. The fruit of this day's movement was all of the 
enemy's dead on that part of the field, about six thousand stand of arms 
and a number of prisoners. We lay in the edge of the woods the night 
of the 3d. The enemy's dead in the field were just at edge of woods, on 
the Rose farm. I do not know exactly the point we reached this evening 
before the mistake was made withdrawing us from the position we had 
woQ, but in my opinion it was considerably in advance of the Rose farm. 
During the night of the 3d a cold rain set in and on the morning of the 
4th of July, 1863, we were withdrawn from our position near Rose's house 
to the position at the stone fence front of wheatficld and woods occu- 
pied by us prior to our charge on 3d. Shortly after being so withdrawn 
ammunition was issued and we were informed that there would be a 
general advance made by the whole army, but the rain was falling, literally 
in sheets of water, and we were afterwards told that the advance had 
been abandoned by reason of the severity of the rain, and so ended the 
battle of Gettysburg, so far as our regiment was concerned. In view of 
the statements heretofore given I feel that I can safely assert: 

First. That Colonel Jackson with his regiment, the Eleventh Pennsyl- 
vania Reserves, and the artillery held that part of Little Round Top on the 
afternoon of the 2d of July, 1863, at the supreme crisis of the battle. 

Second. That Colonel Jackson assumed all the responsibility of issuing 
the order to his regiment and did make the charge successfully, driving 
back the enemy which had defeated the Third Army Corps and two divi- 
sions and one brigade (the First and Second divisions. Second Brigade 
Third Division) of the Fifth Army Corps, and this with a force of less 
than four hundred men. 

Third. That the First Brigade of the Pennsylvania Reserve Corps did not 
reach the position in the front of the whentfield and woods until some time 
after it had been occupied by the Eleventh Regiment under command of 
Colonel Jackson. 

Fourth. General Crawford was not seen by our regiment until after the 
First Brigade had come up and formed line of battle on the right and left 
of the Eleventh Regiment in the manner of formation heretofore given. 

Fifth. And that when General Crawford did join the line of battle, he 
gave the credit for leading the charge to the Eleventh Regiment, and did 
compliment Colonel Jackson as above stated on the wonderful results at- 
tained by the charge made by his regiment under his ord»>rs. 

Sixth. At that time no man dreamed that the action of the Eleventh in 
leading the charge on that day and saving the day to the Union army 
would ever be belittled or ignored, both of which has been done. 

The above hasty and very brief statement has been written with a view 
of comparing notes and arranging the evidence relative to the duty per- 
formed by the Eleventh Regiment Pennsylvania Reserve Corps at the 
battle of Gettysburg — specially so as to the evening of July 2, 1863— and 
is written solely with a view to obtain justice for a regiment that always 



, ,2„,RNN 





Pennsylvania ' at Gettys'burg. 287 

performed its duty, whether in camp, on the march, or on the field of 
battle. Other regiments were as good, but none better; and now when 
more than a quarter of a century has elapsed since the organization of 
this regiment, it is meet and proper that the survivors should gather the 
testimony and show that this regiment did its duty. Otherwise history 
will record that — it was organized, mustered into the service, served three 
years and was mustered out. This won't do — we must brighten our mem- 
ories, refer to our diaries, lnok up and write up our history, and demand 
that the truth be told of us aud justice be done to our dead and to the 
stirvivors of our regiment. 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

41 «T REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

(Twelfth Reserves) 
ADDRESS OF BRIG. -GEN. MARTIN I). HARDIN 

THE Gettysburg campaign, on the Union side, began with the battle 
of Brandy Station, one of the results of which was the knowledge 
that Lee's army was moving northwestwardly. This action was the 
most important, as well as the most severe, the cavalry of the Army of 
the Potomac had fought. By it the Union cavalry not only developed the 
Confederate plan of campaign, but also learned its equality with the 
enemy's cavalry. 

As soon as General Hooker received certain information that Lee had 
extended his army from Fredericksburg to the Shenandoah Valley, he pro- 
posed to General Halleck to attack Lee's rear at Fredericksburg. This 
movement was disapproved . Hooker then gave orders preparatory to meet- 
ing Lee's army in its northwestward movement. There was some delay 
due to instructions from General Halleck, but in a few days the Union 
army moved between the Conofederate army and Washington, with the 
main body of its cavalry on its left (west) flank. The cavalry covered the 
Union army most thoroughly, it never performed its duty" toward that army 
in a more scientific (military) manner. The fighting about Aldie, Upper- 
vUle and Middleburg, Va., was admitted by the Confederates to have been 
the best the Union cavalry had ever done, except at Brandy Station (Bev- 
erly Ford) . The cavalry was supported by a small infantry force both 
at Brandy Station (Beverly Ford) and in the region about Middleburg. 
The German officer Major Von Borcke, and others, state that Stuart's 
Confederate cavalry was never more nuraerous (Von Borcke estimated it 
at twelve thousand and twenty-four guns), and never in better condition. 
Considering this, we can then better appreciate the fine work done by the 
Union cavalry in this advance northward. The Confederate cavalry con- 



•Organized at Harrisburg .\usiist 11, ISSl, to serve three years. It was mustered out 
.rune 11, 1864, by reason of expiration of term of service. 



288 Pcnnsi/hxniia at Gettysburg. 

siderably outnumbered the Union up to the time that General Stahel's 
Cavalry Division, from the defenses of Washington, joined the Army. The 
Army of the Potomac moved slowly northw^estward, crossed the Potomac, 
June 26-27. Lee's main army had crossed this river at or near Williams- 
port, Md., June 23-24. When Hooker reached the vicinity of Washington 
his army had been much reduced by expirations of terms of service (Hooker 
said about forty thousand) . He now learned that there was a large 
number of troops (about thirty-seven thousand) in the defenses of Wash- 
ington. Inasmuch as the Army of the Potomac now covered Washington, 
he requested that some of these troops be sent to reinforce his army. He 
was authorized to take Stahel's Division of Cavalry and the Pennsylvania 
Reserve Division of Infantry. He ordered the Pennsylvania Reserve Divi- 
sion (^Juue 24) to join his army. 

When the Reserves heard that Lee again threatened to invade Maryland 
and possibly Pennsylvania, officers and men began to take on the military 
air which had been somewhat put aside after Fredericksburg, and talk 
of applying to rejoin their comrades of the Army of the Potomac on their 
march northward became prevalent. This went so far, in one case at least, 
as to be put in the form of a written petition. Whatever the, form, the 
feeling of the command, from drummer boy to chaplain, was to take an- 
other turn at the "Johnnies" — to go in for a fight— if Lee's army went as 
far north as Pennsylvania. 

June 24, 1863, the Twelfth Regiment, Lieutenant-Colonel Gustin com- 
manding, formed a part of the Third Brigade; Colonel Fisher commanded 
the brigade and General Crawford the Reserve Division. The Third Bri- 
gade, consisting of the Fifth Regiment, Lieutenant-Colonel Dare; Tenth, 
Colonel Warner; Ninth, Colonel Anderson; Eleventh, Colonel Jackson, and 
Twelfth, Lieutenant-Colonel Gustin, was in camp at Minor's Hill, Vir- 
ginia. The First Brigade, Colonel McCandless commanding, consisting of 
the First Rifies (Bncktails), First, Second and Sixth Regiments, was in 
camp at Fairfax Court House. Second Brigade, Colonel Sickel command- 
ing, consisting of Third, Fourth, Seventh and Eighth regiments, was on 
provost duty in Alexandria, Va. In accordance with instructions from 
General Hooker, General Crawford ordered the three brigades of the Penn- 
sylvania Reserve Division to march on the 25th. The First and Third 
brigades moved accordingly, but the Second Brigade was detained by Gen- 
eral Slough, Military Governor of Alexandria. He though a veteran bri- 
gade necessary to keep convalescents in camp ! In violation of all mili- 
tary principles (and it might possibly be said in violation of patriotic mo- 
tives) he retained this splendid body of veterans against their will and in 
disobedience of General Hooker's orders. However, he was sustained by 
the action of the military coterie which sui-rounded our noble President. 
This coterie never forgave Hooker for his first dispatch upon assuming 
command of the Army of the Potomac, namely, requesting that General 
Stone be made his chief-of-staff. Not only did this coterie refuse to enter- 
tain General Hooker's charges against General Slough, but it refus::d him 
control of the large force at Maryland Heights, and ultimately forced him 
to throw up the command of the army. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 2S9 

The Twelfth Regiment moved with the Third Brigade, in a rain storm, on 
the 26th, marching to Goose Creek, Va. The division had been delayed 
two days waiting for transportation. The First Brigade joined the Third 
en route, the two brigades, about three thousand four hundred and seven- 
teen strong, camping together at Goose Creek. On the '27th the division 
moved at daylight, marched along the Leesburg turnpike. It was much 
delayed by the trains of the Army of the Potomac, and by its own train. 
General Crawford telegraphed General IMeade commanding the Fifth Corps 
as follows: 

"On the MoNocAcy, June 27, i.l5 p. m. 

GENEnAi, : I have received orders fnnii headquarters Army of the Potomac to join 
your corps; I am on my way and just in from the rear; to-night I will encamp above 
the mouth of the Monocacy, as I find my train, which is entirely new, cannot go far- 
ther; have two brigades; Second detached at Alexandria. If I receive no instructions 
to the contrary, I shall move at daylight, to overtalve, if possible, your command." 

The division crossed the Potomac at Edwards' Ferry, on pontoon bridge, 
and camped at night at mouth of the Monacacy. Colonel Hardin, of 
Twelfth, joined en route. "Sunday, 28th, clear and pleasant, moved at day- 
light and soon crossed the aqueduct of Chesapeake and Ohio canal at 
the Monocacy, and passed through Buckeystown, bivouacked on Ballinger's 
creek about two miles from Frederick, Md. ; here joined the Fifth Corps." 
General Meade was this day assigned to the command of the Army of the 
Potomac, General Sykes to that of the Fifth Corps. Hooker had advanced 
a portion of his army through South Mountain passes, with the view of 
cutting Lee's communications, but this movement was disapproved at 
Washington, and the coi'ps advanced through the mountains were ordered 
back to Frederick and directed to proceed up the east base of these moun- 
tains. This latter movement was taking place when the Reserve Division 
joined the army. The greater part of the Union army at this time rested 
near Frederick. At this date (June 28), Lee's army was stretched from 
Hagerstown to the Sus(iuehanna near Harrisburg, and to York, Pa. 
Ewell's Corps at Carlisle and York ; Lee's headquarters with Longstreet's 
and Hill's corps near Chambersburg. Lee was preparing to cross the 
Susquehanna, but that night, he says, "he learned from a scout that the 
Union army had crossed the Potomac and was threatening his comrhunica- 
tions at South Mountain." "It was re.solved," he says, "to concentrate the 
army east of the mountains." 

Meade states, "That he had no special plan but to move northward until 
he made Lee let go of the Susquehanna." Meade learned, on the 30th, 
that Lee was moving with his main force to the east side of the mountains, 
and he decided to concentrate his army on Pipe creek. 

There was an assemblage of officers of the Reserve Division, whilst it 
was camped near Frederick, looking over maps of the country, and guess- 
ing at the future movements of the Union and Confederate armies. Colonel 
Warner of the Tenth, and Colonel Hardin of the Twelfth, agreed that the 
chances were in favor of a fight at or near Gettysburg, the next good cross- 
ing place in the mountains, north of our then position, as shown by the 
maps we had. The morning of the 29th, the writer visited Frederick and 
conversed with officers of General Reynolds' command (First and Eleventh 
Corps), all thought they were going to Gettysburg, or spoke of that place 



290 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

as their ultimate destination. Returning towards camp the writer met the 
division en route to Frederick. It had left Ballinger's creek about noon. 
We marched but a short distance when the division was stopped to let 
other troops take precedence. The division remained here several hours, 
it then followed the artillery reserve. The writer during this delay, visited 
his old friend. Lieutenant "Cog" Hazlett, who commanded Battery "D," 
Fifth United States Artillery. The vpeather was very warm and Lieu- 
tenant Hazlett wore a small soft white hat. As the writer left him to 
rejoin his command, he called back, " 'Cog' we are going to have a fight 
soon, don't wear that white hat into battle." At 7 p. m., we crossed the 
Monocacy bridge on the Baltimore pike and turned up the bank of the 
stream heading north, soon after we waded the stream and struck across 
the fields, and about 10 p. m. bivouacked in a wood, having made a tire- 
some day's march of ten miles." The long delay before mentioned caused 
our division to get far behind the other divisions of the corps, we had 
to rush along, well into the night, to reach the corps camp, where the lead- 
ing divisions had arrived early in the evening and in good order. Having 
arrived in camp late, and it being very dark, we made a bivouac, whilst 
we saw the other division of the Fifth Corps in a regular camp. Most 
of us were so hot and tired we dropped down and went to sleep without 
even making coffee. A bad beginning for a long march. "The morning of 
the 30th, we started early, passed through Liberty, Union Bridge and 
Uniontown (a pontoon train accompanied us this day), march twenty miles 
and bivouacked. Near dark were mustered two miles beyond Uniontown." 
The marching all the forenoon was very slow with many stops, but in the 
afternoon we were again rushed along. This march was the cause of great 
injustice done the division by our new corps commander, in that he re- 
ported to the army commander that our division could not march as fast 
as the other divisions. It will be noted that these other divisions had 
clear roads, no trains to follow, early start, no forced delays, nothing to pre- 
vent them from making their marches in time. 

The Twelfth Regiment, moving with the Pennsylvania Reserve Division, 
left camp two miles beyond Uniontown. at 5 a. m., July 1. Hearing of 
Confederate cavalry in the country, skirmishers and flankers were thrown 
out to cover the division, which moved thus several miles. About 2 p. m., 
halted on Pennsylvania State line: at 3 p. m., were addressed by General 
Crawford. General Meade's orders on the expected battle had been 
read to us before we started. We then moved on till we came to a fine open 
woods where we rested till dark. All day we had been enjoying the 
chei'ries which overloaded the trees along the roadside. The turnpike 
along which we marched a great part of the day was white, hot and 
dusty. We passed Kilpatrick's battlefield at Hanover, and, at dark, 
took up our march again, and continued moving until utterly exhausted; 
about dawn we dropped down, compelling a halt of the division. The 
marching during the night had been without proper halts. After resting 
about an hour we again took up the march, and continued it across country 
till about 12.30 p. m., when we arrived on the battlefield on the Balti- 
more pike, in rear of the center of the army. 

Our division in the very hot weather > marched in the worst possible 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 293 

manner, accomplished nearly seventy miles in three and a half days, and 
on the afternoon and evening of the fourth day went to the top of Big 
Round Top. In the meantime. General Buford, commanding a cavalry 
division, left Middleburg, Md., on 2flth, arrived at Gettysburg on 30th; 
passing through Gettysburg at noon (June 30), he reconnoitred west and 
north. He was here long enough to see the advantages of the Gettys- 
burg position, and he determined to hold it until he was driven away or 
relieved by infantry. The night of June 30, he notified General Reynolds, 
"that Hill's Confederate Corps was camped nine miles west of Gettys- 
burg, and Longstreet's behind Hill's; that no Confederate force had yet 
passed through the mountains from the north toward Gettysburg, but 
that such force would soon be at Hoidlersburg." This information was 
subsequently shown to be correct. General Meade had directed General 
Reynolds, "that if he has to fall back, to do so on Emmitsburg, that the 
Third and Twelfth Corps will come to the assistance there of his and the 
Eleventh Corps." When General Reynolds reached Gettysburg, at 8.35 
a. m., July 1, Buford was with his artillery and dismounted skirmishers, 
standing off Hill's troops. Reynolds joined Buford in the seminary tower, 
and as old companions in arms, with perfect confidence in each other, 
discussed the position and the military sitimtion. Reynolds decided at once 
to support Buford. He knew that if his troops could be brought up 
promptly to this position, Lee could be made to take the offensive, or 
be compelled to fall back with his whole force without fighting. And 
thus, if a battle took place here, the Union army would be enabled to 
fight on the defensive. Buford promised to hold on until Reynolds' bat- 
teries and infantry could get up. Reynolds felt sure his corps with the 
Eleventh could hold on until the Third and Twelfth could reinforce them. 
The information he had of Lee's army, showed that it was almost as badly 
scattered as was the Army of the Potomac. Four corps of the Union 
army could reach this ground by the early afternoon, and the Second 
Corps by sundown. Force enough, with proper management and good 
fighting, to withstand Lee's whole army coming up from several directions 
until the whole of the Union army could be assembled. It was most for- 
tunate for the Union side that it had such intelligent and energetic gen- 
erals in advance as Reynolds and Buford, generals who had the confidence 
of the army commander. General Meade giving General Reynolds (a 
fighting general) his advance "with three corps, proved to that general, 
as to the world, that General Meade was not attempting to avoid a 
battle, but was only anxious that the fight, which must take place, should 
be a defensive one, on his side, if possible. A few minutes after his 
arrival, as soon as he had taken a look at the ground from the seminary 
tower and had had a few minutes conversation with Buford, General 
Reynolds, who was a most accomplished artilleryman, seeing what fine 
ground lay in every direction to the front for artillery (the arm well 
known to preponderate in the Army of the Potomac, more powerful and 
more numerous than Lee's, the only arm in which the Union army was 
superior to the Confederate), a battlefield to make an artilleryman grow en- 
thusiastic, requested Buford to hold on till his (Reynolds') batteries and 



292 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

infantry could come up. He sent off in liot haste several officers for his 
own and the Eleventh Corps batteries, and to hurry up his own and 
Howard's infantry. He then went to select ground for his batteries 
(he had brought up with him Captain Hall, chief of artillery of his lead- 
ing: division), so that no time would be lost. Reynolds thus anticipated 
the present German instructions for battle! In a few minutes Hall's 
Battery arrived and was immediately posted. Soon after, Reynolds' First 
Division came up and was posted to support the First Corps and Buford's 
batteries. In the expectation of the early arrival of Howard's batteries. 
General Reynolds now went to select positions for them; whilst doing so, 
he is struck down by a sharpshooter. Reynolds had already seized this 
^od position, and had given such an impetus to his command, that it went 
on without a break, in carrying out his designs, under his able fighting 
successor. General Doubleday. Reynolds had planted the advance of the 
Union army in Lee's route, he had secured a position across all the roads 
leading east of the mountains at this point, a point where the Confederate 
i.rmy must assemble, if it united east of the mountains. Reynolds might 
have had three corps at Gettysburg, earlier in the day, but he would 
not run the I'isk of throwing this force against Lee's whole army, which 
might be at Gettysburg at the same time. He thus showed his prudence, 
but when he arrived there in person and was satisfied that the informa- 
tion received from Buford during the past night was correct, and learned 
that Lee's army was still en route to assemble at this point, he acted as the 
prompt and intelligent soldier that he was. 

Buford's batteries and dismounted skirmishers succeeded in holding the 
enemy on the west side of Willoughby run till Wadsworth's Division ar- 
rived. Captain Hall, commanding the artillery of this division, had pre- 
ceded the infantry and had posted his own battery in aid of Buford's 
batteries, which were doing heroic service on the Chambersburg road. 
As soon as it arrived. Cutler's Brigade was posted on either side of the 
Chambersburg road and across an old railroad cut, to support these bat- 
teries. Meredith's (Iron) Brigade was sent to the left of the road to 
occupy a piece of woods which Hill's troops were entering. Heth (Con- 
federate division commander) attacked with four of his brigades at once 
the position held by Reynolds' force. The three right regiments of Cutler's 
Brigade were forced back. Reynolds ordered Meredith's Brigade to attack 
across the front of the Confederate force. This attack was successful, 
the Confederate General Archer and many of his men were captured. 

These dispositions were just completed, in which his two brigades had 
defeated and almost destroyed two brigades of the enemy, when this 
accomplished general was killed. The falling back of Cutler's right, left 
Hall's Battery exposed, but the Fourteenth Brooklyn, Ninety-fifth New 
York and Sixth Wisconsin, changed front and charged the ]Mississippi 
troops attacking Hall's Battery and captured two Mississippi regiments in 
the old railroad cut. Rowley's Division of the First Corps was put in 
here ; Robinson's division of the First Corps was held in reserve on Sem- 
inary Hill. Soon Rodes' division of Ewell's Confederate Corps attacked 
from -the direction of Carlisle, and Robinson's Division was advanced to 
meet it. Baxter's Brigade went in on the right of Cutler, and afterward 



Pennsylvania at Gettijshiirf/. 293 

took Cutler's position, (iciicral Piuir.s bri.nade wont on riglit of Baxter's. 
Robinson's Division resisted well Rodes' attack and captured three North 
Carolina regiments. So far the First Corps had more than held its own. 
"If the Eleventh Corps had been as well handled and fought, the day 
would probably have seen no reverse." General Howard spread his two 
divisions, Barlow's and Schurz's to the right of the First Corps, but did 
not make strong connection with it. The Confederate seized Oak Hill, a 
prominent point between the Union corps, and charging from this point, 
turned the i-ight of the First Corps and the left of the Eleventh. For- 
tunately General Howard had placed one of his divisions, Steinwehr's, in 
reserve on Cemetery Hill, and the left of the First Corps fell back in 
order and covered the retreat of the artillery and ambulances. But nearly 
five thousand prisoners were left in the enemy's hands. General Reynolds 
had, earl.y in the day, sent word to General Meade that the enemy was 
in force near Cashtown and advancing on Gettysburg, and that he would 
endeavor to hold Gettysburg till reinforced. Soon after General Reynolds 
was killed the cool-headed Buford thought matters were not being con- 
ducted very well, and he sent off a dispatch to the effect that, "there 
seemed to bo no head," and requested that some one be sent forward 
to command. It was, no doubt, in answer to this request that General 
Hancock was sent forward to take supreme command. When he arrived, 
matters looked badly, so much so, that he at first thought the part of 
the army here would have to be moved back. Soon, however, the bat- 
teries got into position on the left of the town, and Steinwehr's Division 
with Howard's batteries showed a good front on the right, and the ad- 
vantages of the position Ayere explained to him, when he saw that Lee 
would have to continue to attack, so that it was only a question whether 
the Union army could at this point hold its position. By sundown all 
was ready to meet an attack. The Union position at this time appeared 
so strong General Lee and his corps commanders concluded they could 
not assault it that evening with success. Thus, two Union corps, even with 
the loss of their commander, had been sufficient to hold Lee for an entire 
day. How much easier and with how much less loss it could have been 
done if Reynolds had lived and been in command of three or four corps. 
General Lee's troops were disposed bn Seminary Ridge, about one mile 
from the Union line and parallel to it. The Confederate line was about 
five miles long, concave to the Union line which was about three miles 
long. Lee's concave position enabled him to utilize his large reserve ar- 
tillery, both for connecting his wings and to crush the Union artillery, 
which latter had to be concentrated too much (on the third day the guns 
were only a yard apart). The defects of Lee's position were, his inability 
to make the troops on his long line act together, and his inability to rein- 
force either wing promptly, and these were probably the causes of the 
failure of his attacks. If he had entrenched his center and either of his 
flanks and had used his main army on either of Meade's flanks he would 
probably have succeeded in dislodging the Union army. It seems to have 
been the intention, that Ewell's Corps should attack early on the 2d, also 
it was thought Longstreet would be in position to attack on Conf(>derate 
right by 9 a. m. Such was no doubt the understanding amongst the senior 

20 



294 Pennsylvania at Getty sMirg. 

Confederate general (except Longstreet) when they separated for the night 
(July 1). However, when morning came and the formidable position of 
the Union army crowned with earthworks and artillery was seen both by 
General Lee and General Ewell, General Lee (who went early to Ewell's 
front) hesitated to assaiilt until he could have thorough reconnoissances 
made and until Longstreet's Corps should be up. General Meade noticing 
the movements of Ewell's Corps and being strong himself on his right, 
early in the morning ordered an attack by the Twelfth and Fifth corps, 
to be supported by the Sixth. But Slocum, commanding the Twelfth, and 
Warren, chief of engineers of the army, reported the ground unfavorable; 
also the Fifth Corps did not come up in good shape to attack before noon, 
and the Sixth was then still far off. There has been much controversy 
between the Confederate generals, since the war, as to when Longstreet 
ought to have been ready to attack, also as to the time Ewell should have 
supported Longstreet's attack. It would appear that General Lee sent 
one of his staff early in the day to reconnoitre in front of the Union left. 
This officer went over the ground about the peach orchard ; when he re- 
turned he told General Lee that this was favorable ground for making 
an attack. At this time. Sickles* Third Corps was massed on the left 
of the Second, on Cemetery Ridge. The groimd on Lee's right consisted 
principally of open fields. Longstreet's command was sent in a round-about 
way to get to the peach orchard position, so as not to be seen by the 
Union signal officer on Little Round Top. Longstreet himself was in no 
hurry, as he did not want to attack without his third division (Pickett's). 
Moreover, he states that the agreement on beginning the invasion was, 
"that there should be no offensive battle delivered by their army." If 
this is true. General Reynolds is entitled to credit for making Lee change 
his plan. Whilst Longstreet was moving around the Union left. Sickles 
was moving out his corps and taking position on the Union side of the peach 
orchard. The controversy between Generals Meade and Sickles in regard 
to this movement is well known. 

It seems to the writer that this matter stands about as follows: General 
Meade had been all the morning studying his right with a view of attack- 
ing or of receiving an attack there ; no I'eport had reached him that Con- 
federate troops were threatening his left. There was much open ground 
in front of his left ; Meade supposed his cavalry (which had covered itself 
with honor the day before) which had been directed to watch the flank, 
would be able to give him early warning of any extensive movement of 
the enemy in that direction. Early in the afternoon, upon request of 
General Sickles to have ground selected for his corps to occupy. General 
Hunt, chief of artillery of the Union army, was sent to assist General 
Sickles in selecting a position. Sickles and Hunt could not find any good 
line in this region without going out very far to Sickles' front. It is now 
well known that the ground in front of Little Round Top is a most diffi- 
cult region in which to select a line of battle. Artillery could be of no 
use on the Little Rround Top line, and how far the woods and difficult 
country extended to the left-front, neither Hunt nor Sickles knew. Taking 
into consideration the short time they had to select a position in so difficult 
a country, it was probably as well done as it could have been. Between 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 295 

2 and 3 p. m. the signal officer on Little Round Top and the skirmishers of 
Sickles' command detected Longstreefs movement. At General Sickles' 
urgent request, General Meade went to his left about 3.30 p. m. to look 
up ground for Sickles' Corps. The fact seems to be that General Meade 
did not believe he would be attacked on the left. He thought his cavalry 
would certainly give him ample notice of any threatened attack on that 
front so that he would have time to prepare for it. If the cavalry had been 
where General Meade thought, and had reason to believe it to be, he would 
have had such notice. But it happened that Merritt's Brigade of Buford's 
Division, which had been ordered to relieve some of Gregg's Division, had 
left here before Gregg's Cavalry arrived to relieve Merritt ; thus, at this 
critical time of the day there was no cavalry on the Union left-front. 
General Meade arrived on his left just as Longstreefs attack was be- 
ginning, and as Sickles' line was very far out in advance of Hancock, being 
ignorant of the region. General Meade thought Sickles had moved his line 
unnecessarily far out. However, when Sickles and Hunt told him what 
a tangled place the ground in front of Little Round Top was, he concluded 
to reinforce Sickles where he was. Moreover, there was then little or 
no time left to select a new line. The subsequent loss of the Third Corps 
position was due to the fact that the Fifth and Sixth Corps were not 
brought up soon enough, the one to Sickles' support, the other to form a 
second line on the Little Round Top ridge. If General Meade had been 
notified by his cavalry of Longstreefs movement, he would certainly have 
had the Fifth and Sixth Corps in place to meet this attack. Upon what 
small matters turn the fate of battles ! 

The new position of Sickles brought Humphreys' Division several hun- 
dred yards to the left- front of the Second Corps, and posted on the Em- 
mitsburg road. Graham's Brigade of Birney's Division on the same road 
on Humphreys' left, reaching to the peach orchard. Ward's and De Tro- 
briand's brigades stretched back to the rear, at right angles to Graham's 
Brigade, in front, respectively, of the wheatfield and of Devil's Den. 
Longstreefs attack with artillery began about 3 p . m . ; he concentrated 
his artillery opposite the angle of Sickles' Corps at the peach orchard, and 
opened such a concentrated fire on the Union artillery at this point as to 
overwhelm it. He then began "his attack with his infantry, on his right, 
with Hood's Division, which pushed into the woods and outflanked the 
Third Corps on its left. Law's Brigade of Hood's Division, on extreme 
Confederate right, went over Big Round Top and came out on the Union 
ambulances, but this brigade had moved too far to its right; it had lost 
connection with balance of Hood's command, and it was ordered to move 
to its left. Hood's other brigades broke through the left of De Trobriand's 
line and began to pass up and around Little Round Top. The Union left 
being thus flanked and beginning to give way, McLaw's Division was 
pushed in on Hood's left ; it carried the center of the Third Corps posi- 
tion. This corps was too weak to hold so long a line. The Union troops 
would now have had to fall back, but reinforcements commenced arriving 
just as the Confederates reached the Union position. Humphreys, Who was 
not at fii'st attacked, sent Bnrlins's Brigade to Birney's assistance. The 
whole Fifth Corps was ordered up to the support of Birney's line. Barnes' 



296 Pennsylvania at Getty s'bnrg. 

(First Division) arrived first. Til ton's and Sw^eitzer's brigades of this divi- 
sion going in near the peach orchard ; Vincent's Brigade, at the request of 
General Warren, chief-engineer of the army, to Little Round Top: then 
came Caldwell's Division of the Second Corps to the vpheat field, where 
its right was turned, and then two brigades of the Second Division of the 
Fifth Corps to the wheatfield, where they had scarcely arrived when their 
right was turned and they retreated to the position from which they had 
started, on the right of Little Round Top. 

Soon McLaws' attack was supported by Anderson's Division of Hill's 
Corps and Humphreys, although aided by Graham's Brigade, was driven 
back from the Emmitsburg road. Hancock sent two regiments of Gibbon's 
Division and Willard's Brigade of Hays' Division to assist Humphreys. 
General Sickles was here wounded, and General Hancock, assiuning com- 
mand of the Third Corps, sent two additional regiments to help Hum- 
phreys. Finally General Meade brought up Stanuard's Brigade, and a 
number of batteries were posted on Hancock's line, and the Sixth Corps 
came up and took the position on the right of Little Round Top, from 
which the Third Corps had moved out. In the meantime Hood's troops 
had made a desperate effort to carry Little Round Top and the ravine 
between it and Big Round Top. General Warren going early in the action 
to the signal station on Little Round Top, had seen IJood's troops ap- 
proaching that position. The signal service men were about leaving when 
Warren arrived. He ordered them to remain and he hurried off for troops 
to put on Little Round Top. The Fifth Corps was coming up, and as he 
had formerly served most gallantly in command of a brigade of that 
corps, his request for a brigade was immediately answered by General 
Barnes who sent Vincent's Brigade, which, moving at a double-quick, beat 
the Texans of Hood's command to the top of Little Round Top. The fight- 
ing for this hill was fierce. Law's Brigade pushing through between 
Little and Big Round Top contended with Vincent for this ravine. Vin- 
cent was soon supported by Weed's Brigade of the Second Division of 
the Fifth Corps, and Hazlett's Battery was carried to the top of Little 
Round Top. When the ammunition of Vincent's and Weed's brigades was 
expended (both these brigade commanders being killed) , Fisher's Brigade 
of the Reserves was hurried to their support. By this time the Confed- 
erates had become exhausted, and those who had not fallen back were 
captured. Upon arriving on the battlefield about 12.30 p. m., the Twelfth 
Regiment, as the entire division of the Reserves, was given time to rest 
and to make a full meal, the first since leaving Frederick, Md. As soon 
as we had feasted, many of the mounted officers of the division started 
out to see the line of battle. We rode up to the rear of the town of 
Gettysburg, then moved along the line of battle to General Meade's head- 
quarters, where we had a conversation with members of his staff, then we 
started to ride down General Hancock's line, when we heard the commence- 
ment of Sickles' fight. We galloped over to our camp where we found the 
Fifth Corps moving off to Sickles' support. We, at that time, had never 
heard of Round Top, Big or Little. The First Division of the corps led, 
followed by the Second Division, General Ayres commanding. Then came 
our division. Third Brigade leading, which at that time was well filled and 



Peiiiif<ijlv(nii(i (it (lettijshiirjj. 297 

closed up. Wo niovoil westerly along n wood road and soon came to a 
place where the road was narrow and corduroyed, a fence on one side and 
brush on the other; woods on both sides. As we advanced we began to 
meet wounded men returning ; soon the road was so encumbered with 
wounded walking to the rear, and ambulances going the same way, we 
had ti> take to the woods along side of the road. This caused some delay. 
We tiled up on tiie north siile of the ridge to the right of Little Round 
Toi). The ground liere was rocky and covered with thick brush; some 
time was taken u]) in getting into position ; eventually we got into line 
by brigade front, the Third Brigade in front. We then advanced to the 
crest of the ridge. As we reached the crest we got our first view of the 
battle on the left ; it was not a reassuring sight ! The whole valley between 
us and the ridge opposite, about a third of a mile off, was filled solid 
with our retreating soldiers and batteries, thousands of the soldiers wounded 
and all the batteries disabled. Some of the men, especially toward the 
left-front, were retreating at a run. The enemy's line was only visible by 
the white pulTs of smoke at the crest of the opposite ridge. Very few of 
our men were firing — a man now and then would stop and take a shot. 
This great mass of thousands in the valley was moving sullenly to the 
rear at a walk. There seemed no organized force, a mere mass of men, 
officers and men, inextricably mixed — all seeking safety behind the ridge 
upon which we stood. A battery was making its way into position in the 
underbrush on our right and a few guns in position on the ridge to our 
left (since called Little Round Top), were firing slowly at the enemy in 
the woods beyond the opposite ridge. AkS soon as the division got into 
position (there being a lull in the action at this time) the writer rode up 
the ridge to the left to get a look at the enemy's position ; when near the 
top he met a party of officers and men carrying General Weed, who was 
mortally wounded. The writer who knew the general personally, stopped 
to see if he could be of any sei'vice. Whilst conversing here, another party 
came along bringing back his old friend. Lieutenant Hazlett, who in the 
haste of going into action had forgotten that fatal white hat. He was shot 
through the head, probably by the same sharpshooter who had killed General 
Weed . 

Finding he could see little more here tlian at the position the division 
occupied, the writer started down; he met the Twelfth Regiment coming 
up with the Third Brigade except the Eleventh Regiment. We scrambled 
up and pver Little Round Top and moved down the left-front, going to 
the assistance of Vincent's Brigade. As the Third Brigade moved away, 
the First Brigade was ordered to advance to the front. The Eleventh 
Regiment being still in its position when the First Brigade came up to 
the front line, it joined that brigade and advanced with it. We saw the 
First Brigade and Eleventh Regiment make their gallant advance through 
the retreating multitude, as we clambered over the rocks on top of Little 
Round Top. We joined in their cheer and started at a double-quick down 
the left-front of Little Round Top, stumbling over rocks, and the numerous 
dead of Vincent's and Weed's gallant brigades. As we advanced, a few 
scattering shots came from the retiring enem.v. Our advance was most 
■ fortunate as Vincent's and Weed's brigades had expended all tlieir am- 



298 Pennsylvania at Getty shur(j. 

munition. The Confederates (several hundred) remaining between Big 
and Little Round Top, seeing and hearing our advance, laid down their 
arms and became prisoners to the brigades which were so well entitled 
to receive them. Darkness ended the contest. Thus our small division, 
coming on the field in the nick of time and advancing boldly, turned the 
tide of success on the left, and the enemy's great efforts, on their front, 
were rendered entirely futile. 

About 9 p. m. Colonel Fisher commanding the Third Brigade, with the 
consent of the division commander, ordered an advance up Big Round Top. 
The Twentieth Maine deployed as skirmishers, the Fifth and Twelfth 
regiments to follow in support in line of battle. The skirmishers started 
promptly, but on account of the darkness and difficulty of deploying into 
line in this rough place, it was some minutes after they started that the 
line of the Fifth and Twelfth followed. 

The skirmishers went promptly to the top of the mountain ; only an 
occasional shot was fired by the Confederates. The Fifth and Twelfth 
regiments advanced at the word of command given in Colonel Fisher's 
stentorian tones. The line upon advancing in utter darkness was almost 
immediately broken and became confused by the rocky, precipitous and 
difficult ground. Officers became separated from their men, but all pushed 
on up the mountain; when about one-third way up all order was lost. 
Officers and men of different companies and even of different regiments 
became intermingled . The commanding officers of the brigade and the 
regiments began calling to each other ; the rocks and woods resounded with 
the cries. It is said, and no doubt with good reason, that the Confed- 
erate troops stationed at this time on the mountain, hearing all this noise, 
and knowing that the Sixth Corps had lately arrived, believing that whole 
corps was about taking position on Big Round Top, hastily retreated 
down their side of the mountain. The confusion was so great that officers 
and men of the Fifth and Twelfth regiments concluded to return to the 
position from which they had started, the valley between Big and Little 
Round Top. On making this ascent, a number of Confederate prisoners 
fell into the possession of the Fifth and Twelfth regiments. A squad of 
officers and men (about seventy) in which the writer found himself upon 
first descending to the foot of the mountain, sent forward two men to 
investigate the first camp fires seen. These scouts were answered by 
members of the Fifteenth Alabama. Oor party then, after discussion, 
concluded to move around the mountain side toward the left or south in 
which direction we were sure of finding the Sixth Corps' pickets. We 
in this way, after an hour's very hard march, found the Vermont Brigade 
pickets and went at once to our starting point. In the meantime nearly 
all the members of the Fifth and Twelfth regiments had found their 
way back to the same place. The Twentieth Maine skirmishers finding 
themselves unsupported had returned to this starting point. It was now 
suggested that the Fifth and Twelfth regiments should march up the 
mountain by the flank, the Twentieth Maine skirmishers leading as before, 
this plan was adopted. Advancing in this manner, all soon reached the 
top in good order. The Twelfth on the crest; the Fifth on its right; the 
Twentieth Main skirmishers remained out as pickets toward the left-front. 



Pennsylvania at Gettijshunj. 299 

The Fifth and Twelfth regiments threw out pickets in their front and to 
connect with the troops on the right. The Ninth and Tenth Reserves had 
been left in line across the ravine between Little and Big Round Top. Two 
regiments of A^incent's Brigade wore posted in the interval between the 
right of the Fifth Reserves and the Ninth and Tenth Reserves, but almost 
at right angles to the general line. (See map accompanying the report 
of the commander of Vincent's Brigade.) The line remained thus until 
daylight when a regular connected line was formed from the top of Big 
Round Top to the top of Little Round Top, and stone breastworks were 
thrown up, which still stand (1888) as we left them. There was some 
sharpshootiug on both sides (July 3d), Frank H. Hench, Company A, 
Twelfth Regiment, was killed and Joseph Aikens, Company G, Twelfth 
Regiment wounded. 

The Confederates on their right, about dark, slowly withdrew to the line 
the Third Union Corps had held. Ewell began his attack from Confed- 
erate left about sunset; he found the Union line stripped along his left, 
there was nothing but Greene's Brigade of the Twelfth Corps on the Union 
extreme right. Early attacked Cemetery Hill and Johnson, Gulp's Hill. 
Early's attack was gallantly made but failed. Johnson carried the Union 
works on his left and remained in possession there. The result of the day's 
fighting has been described as follows: 

"Longstreet had carried the whole front on which the Third Corps 
had been drawn ; Ewell's left was thrust within the breastworks on the 
Union right, in a position, which if held by him, would enable him to take 
Meade's entire line in reverse, and the Union loss in the two days' combat 
had already reached the frightful aggregate of upwards of twenty thousand. 
But the army and corps commanders on Union side that night were unani- 
mous for fighting it out here." 

If this is a just summary of the results of the two days fighting, was 
not General Lee justified in ordering an assault on the Union center? If 
that had yielded at all, would not Longstreet's two other divisions on Con- 
federate right and Ewell's whole corps on their left have followed up the 
success and overwhelmed the Union army? We now know, that an at- 
tack made in broad daylight, over open ground, against good troops, armed 
with modern weapons, although made strictly in accordance with the battle 
tactics of Frederick II. and Napoleon, must fail. As witness this grand 
attack and many made by General Grant's army en route to Richmond. In 
this third day's magnificent assault and heroic defense our regiment wns 
only a deeply interested spectator. The grand scene was clearly in view 
to any one who would chance his life against the deadly shari)shooters by 
raising his head above the stone breastwork. 

The First Brigade of the Reserves, under command of Colonel McCand- 
less, advanced late in the afternoon of the 3d, and by its bold and skilful 
movements defeated a force more than twice its strength, and recovered 
all the ground lost by the Union army on the 2d. 

The Third Brigade remained in the breastworks on liig Round Top until 
the morning of the 5th, when it moved off with the Fifth Corps toward 
Eramitsburg. - 



oOO Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

The enemy withdrew the night of the 3d and morning of the 4th. Their 
absence being soon detected, many of us toolc this opportunity to visit 
the battlefield on the left and front. 

The criticism of General Meade for not attacking the Confederate army 
after Gettysburg, was refuted by subsequent events. What chance had 
General Meade with a force no larger than the enemy, when General 
Grant with more than double the enemy's force in his repeated assaults, 
suffered such heavy losses and accomplished so little? The numbers actu- 
ally engaged in the fighting were nearly equal. The Confederates were 
much the stronger July 1. The two sides were about equal the second 
day, the Union force probably the stronger the third day. The losses, July 
1-3, as given by the Adjutant-General's office, were: "Union, twenty-three 
thousand and three; Confederate, twenty thousand four hundred and fifty- 
one." 



421^ REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

(Thirteenth Reserves^ First Rifles) 

ADDRESS OF CAPTAIN JOHN P. BARD 

AFTER Buruside's "Mud March" in January, 1863, the division of the 
Pennsylvania Reserves, on account of the terrible loss it had sus- 
tained in the battle of Fredericksburg, Va., December 13, 1862, was 
ordered to the Department of Washington for the purpose of recruiting 
its ranks. The First Brigade, to which the Bucktail Regiment belonged, 
was in camp at Fairfax Station, on the Orange and Alexandria railroad, 
when the battle of Chancellorsville was fought, where they remained until 
they were ordered to rejoin the Army of the Potomac. 

When they received the news that Lee had assumed the offensive and 
threatened an invasion of the North, and that Hooker's army was falling 
back toward Washington, the men composing this division of Pennsyl- 
vanians, fired with the patriotic zeal and heroism that had characterized 
them on many hard-fought fields of battle, demanded that their fortunes 
be again joined with the oft-defeated, but never conquered, Army of the 
Potomac. Some of the regiments of the First Brigade drew up petitions 
to their commanding officers asking that they be permitted to take part 
in the coming campaign. The order to get rid of all surplus baggage and 
camp equipage, draw extra rations and a full supply of ammunition, was 
therefore received with joy, and the men cheerfully went about the work 
of preparing for an active campaign. Their numbers present for duty 
had been increased by the return of sick and wounded from general hos- 
pitals, but very few new men had joined the division. Although con- 
siderable effort was made I do not think the Bucktails got a single recruit 
while they were in the Department of Washington. 



*Oi'gaiiizeci at Harrisbuj'g June 21, 1861, to serve three years. It was mustered out 
June 11, 1864, by reason of exi)iration of term of service. 






fk :5lV-., 




BVJCKTAl 




Pennsylvania at Gcttijshtir;/. 'M)\ 

The Second Brifjaile did not join in the movement, but renin iucd in 
the Department of Washington, being stationed at Alexandria. 

Early Friday morning, June 26, the First Brigade broke oamp at Fairfax 
Station and marched to Edwards' Ferry, where they crossed the Potomac 
river, marching thence by Frederick City to near Uniontown, Md., arriv- 
ing at the latter place on Tuesday, June 30. In the meantime Lee had 
crossed the Potomac at Williamsport, with his entire army, except a large 
corps of General Ewell's and Stuart's division of cavalry. The latter troops 
had crossed earlier and had advanced into Pennsylvania. Several bodies 
of their scouts had reached as far north as the Sus(iuehnnn:i river near 
Harrisburg. 

During the march to Uniontown, we received the intelligence that Gen- 
eral Meade had succeeded General Hooker in command of the Army of 
the Potomac. Knowing that General John P. Reynolds Was Meade's senior 
in rank, this information caused some surprise among the Reserves. They 
felt, however, that no mistake had been made in appointing General Meade 
to that command. 

Both these officers had commanded our brigade and division, and were 
quite well-known to the men. They knew their fighting qualities and were 
quite well satisfied that either one would command the army with dis- 
tinguished ability. Being warm personal friends and wholly devoted to 
the cause, either would have the hearty support and earnest co-operation 
of the other. It was a source of great satisfaction to the officers and 
men of the Reserves to know that they would fight the next battle on 
their native soil and under the leadership of a Pennsylvanian who had com- 
manded the division in the terrible battle of Fredericksburg. 

The Reserves were assigned to the Fifth Corps, commanded by Major- 
General George Sykes and wore the Maltese cross, being the Third Divi- 
sion. On Thursday morning, July 2, the Fifth, having been selected by 
General Meade as his reserve corps, took a position in the rear of the 
right wing of our army. P'"rom their position, owing to the peculiar forma- 
tion of Meade's line, they could in a very short time, reach any given 
point. General Sickles, with the Third Corps, was to occupy the left of 
the line, in the formation of which he was to connect with Hancock's left 
and form on a prolongation of his [Hancock's] line, with his left resting on 
Round Top. 

This would bring the line of the Third Corps along the crest of Little 
Round Top. For some reason, not necessary to discuss here. General 
Sickles advanced beyond the position assigned him and formed his line on 
a plain, his left crossing the Emmitsburg road, with both flanks exposed. 
The ground upon which he formed his line is certainly more than half a 
mile in advance of the position which General Meade intended he should 
occupy . 

About the time General Sickles had his line formed (ieneral Meade 
arrived at little Round Top, and, seeing the mistake Sickles had made, 
sent for that officer and p.ilnt out to him his error. General Sickles at 
once proposed to withdraw his corps and form on the line originally indi- 
cated. General Meade replied that the enemy would not permit his 
withdrawal, as it could then be seen he was preparing to attack. While 



302 PennsyUxtnia at Grttyshurg. 

they were talking Longstreet's guns opened, and soon his long lines of in- 
fantry began to emerge from the woods. It now became evident this was 
to be a determined effort on the part of that able Confederate chieftain to 
destroy the Third Corps before they could receive support. When the 
first gun was fired General Sickles hastened to the front, and General 
Meade ordered the Fifth Corps to march with all possible haste to General 
Sickles' support. 

The gallant Third Corps fought desperately to hold their ground, but 
the long line of Longstreet's extending beyond both flanks, steadily drove 
them back. On the right of the Third the line of the enemy was pushed 
rapidly forward, with the evident purpose of turning that flank and getting 
between the Third Corps and the main line of our army. At the same 
time Longstreet's right was thrown forward, making a vigorous attack 
on Round Top, while a very strong force from the Devil's Den made a 
determined assault on Little Round Top, breaking the line of the Third 
Corps, which at that point was thrown into confusion. By this time the 
Second Division of the Fifth Corps, composed of regulars, arrived on the 
ground, and was formed on the left of Hancock's line. When the Third 
Corps broke, General Meade ordered the Second Division to charge in the 
direction of the wheatfield and peach orchard. The regulars went forward 
in splendid form; when they reached the wheatfield they were met by 
a counter-charge of the now victorious troops of Longstreet. The regu- 
lars received the charge gloriously, but, after stubborn fighting and very 
heavy loss on both sides, being largely outnumbered, they were forced back. 
They, however, kept their line and retired in good order, all the time 
keeping up a steady fire. In this manner they retreated, closely fol- 
lowed by the C(uifcderatcs, across the swamp and half way up the side of 
Little Round Top, or rather half way up the slope of the hill on the 
right of Little Round Top, the left of the Second Division, when it fell 
back, barely reaching the base of Little Round Top. On the right the 
enemy succeeded in capturing several guns, but were only able to hold 
them a few minutes ; a murderous fire from Hancock's batteries and the 
charge of the regulars checked their advance and re-captured the guns. 

At this moment the situation on the left was alarming; everything indi- 
cated a rout of that wing of the army. At this crisis General Meade, who 
was fortunately present at this point, ordered a charge from in front 
of Little Round Top by the First Brigade of the Pennsylvania Reserves. 
The Third Brigade, commanded by Colonel Fisher, had been sent to the 
extreme left to the support of General Vincent, at Round Top. 

Little Round Top, as its name indicates, is a round hill rising about 
two hundred feet above the streams which run at its base. The top and 
side facing the enemy are covered with rough rocks, some of them very 
large; that side is also very steep, and near the top difficult of ascent. 
At the foot and in our front there is a small stream known as Plum Run, 
the course of which is parallel with our line. The ground on both sides 
of this stream is swampy, forming a flat some fifty or seventy-five yards 
wide. 

On the opposite side of the stream, on cur right, the ground rises more 
gently, gradually falling off into a plain. In our front and on the left 



Pennsylvania at Gcttyshurg. . 1303 

it grows rougher and steeper until it reaches the Devil's Den, a cluster 
of very large rocks on our left, the ground between them much broken 
and covered with scrubby timber, covering an area of perhaps three acres. 
At that time the woods extended down to the edge of the swamp in our 
front and continued over the hill till it reached the wheatfield on our 
right. Beyond the wheatfield there was another strip of woorls, and 
beyond that the peach orchard fronting on the Emmitsburg road. The 
stone wall or fence wa3 located across Plum Run close by the edge of the 
woods and to the right of the crest of Little Round Top. The stone wall 
covered about one-half of our regiment when in line. 

The Pennsylvania Reserves arrived on the ground at the supreme mo- 
ment. If Long-street had obtained possession of Little Round Top, Meade's 
position would have been turned. From this point the guns of the enemy 
would have raked our center and left-eonter and from this position he 
could strike the right wing on the flank and real. General Meade's pres- 
ence at that part of the line would indicate the deep anxiety he felt in the 
result of the conflict for the possession of the Round Tops He knew it 
was of the utmost importance that the advance of Longstreet's exultant 
troops should be checked before they reached the crest of Little Round 
Top, the real key to his position, and which was, at the moment when we 
arrived upon the ground, almost within their grasp. 

The brigade marched upon the field in reverse order, throwing the Buck- 
tails upon the left of the line with the rear r:;u!: to th;> enemy. Colonel 
Taylor gave the command to counter-march and while the movement was 
being executed a rebel yell indicated the presence of the enemy, which 
caused considerable confusion in the line, but when the command to charge 
was received, every one of those veteran soldiers quickly found his place, 
and presented a solid and unbroken line to the enemy, who had by this 
time almost gained the summit, those farthest in advance being only a 
few yards from one of our batteries, whose gunners were about to spike 
their guns. Shouting to the gunners to hold their pieces the Bucktails, 
springing forward with a cheer, engaged the enemy in a desperate hand-to- 
hand conflict lasting but a short time when, for the first time that day. Long- 
street's brave men were forced to retreat. With a broken line and in 
considerable confusion they flew down the hill and across the swamp, 
the Bucktails following close and capturing quite a number of prisoners. 
At the foot of the hill Lieutenant-Colonel A. E. Niles fell on the front 
line severely wounded. The Bucktails kept up a steady fire from their 
breech-loading rifles as they charged ; the lines being very close they inflicted 
terrible punishment on the retreating foe. At the stone wall the enemy 
made a feeble attempt to re-form, but were not able to check the im- 
petuous charge of the Bucktails. It is needless to state that Colonel Taylor 
and ]Major Hartshorne were to be found in the front line all the time. 
Not taking any account of what was occurring on the right of our line, 
the Bucktails pushed on after the now thoroughly routed enemy who fled 
through the woods, on up the hill, on, on, until near the edge of the wheat- 
Held when Colonel Taylor, discovering that he was a considerable distance 
in advance of our line and unsupported, ordered a halt. 



;J04 Pennsijlvania at (Icffi/sbiirg. 

After we halted the enemy were either reiuforced or concentrated their 
scattered lines, as they kept up a heavy fire in our front, but as we were 
still in the woods and our boys found good cover behind trees they did 
us but little harm. Up to this time we had captured a large number 
of prisoners. 

Just after the line halted we received a heavy volley from our right- 
center. Colonel Taylor with two other officers and fifteen or twenty men 
were on that part of the line at the time. Quickly facing to the left they 
discovered, but a short distance away, two hundred or three hundred 
rebels partly hidden by the timber. An officer promptly demanded their 
surrender when nearly every man in their line threw down his arms. 
Just then a Confederate in the rear of their line sang out with an oath, 
"I'll never surrender to a corporal's guard." The rebels again grasped 
their arms when Lieutenant Kratzer called out to the Bucktails, "Tree, 
every man of you," and, jumping behind a tree near him, he turned to 
Colonel Taylor, who was near by, and urged him to hurry. Just as the 
colonel laid his hand on Lieutenant Kratzer's shoulder, and was in the 
act of stepping under shelter of a tree, a rebel sharpshooter sent a bullet 
through his heart— when our brave and beloved commander died without 
speaking a word. "\Mien the few men that were there saw Colonel Taylor 
fall they poured several v(^lleys in (juick succession into the enemy at 
the same time calling upon them tc) surrender. About forty or fifty threw 
down their arms and gave themselves up ; the others retreated in the direc- 
tion of the Devil's Den. 

The command of the regiment now devolved on Major Hartshorne, who 
was at the time on the left of the line. As soon as he was informed 
of the death of Colonel Taylor and knowing that there was a considerable 
force on our left and i-ear, he withdrew his line to the stone wall and 
sent Captain Kinsey with his company out in the direction of the Devil's 
Den, with orders to form in line of skirmishers at right angles with the 
line of the regiment, attack the enemy and develop his strength and posi- 
tion. When Captain Kinsey reached the edge of the Devil's Den, he was 
met with a heavy volley from the enemy who were posted behind rocks 
and trees, taking such cover as they could find, and a lively skirmish en- 
sued. The rapid firing attracted Major Hartshorne's attention, when he 
sent Lieutenant Kratzer to ascertain whether or not Captain Kinsey could 
hold his position. Captain Kinsey urged Lieutenant Kratzer to support 
him with his company, insisting, that with some help he could carry the 
rocks and capture the force defending them. The lines were very close, 
only a few yards apart, and the exposure of any part of the body called 
forth a shot from the watchful foe. Lieutenant Kratzer agreed to go 
back, and if he could get Major Hatshorne's consent to bring up his com- 
pany. Just as he turned to go back, several shells fell in their midst and 
exploded. This was promptly followed by a volley from the enemy in their 
front. Captain Kinsey was severely wounded by a shell. In the con- 
fusion following. Lieutenant Kratzer got away and reported the situation 
to Major Hartshorne. It being then dark and the enemy still in strong 
force in his front. Major Hartshorne deeming it unsafe to attempt without 
support to drive the enemy from his strong position, recalled Captain Kin- 



Pennsylvania at (ictfyshnnj. 305 

sey's company, leaving only a few pickets to watcli the niovomcnts of the 
enemy. A brisk firing was kept up all along the line till about !) o'clock, 
when it ceased, seemingly by mutual consent. 

So ended the battle of the 2d of July, in front of Little Round Top. The 
fighting from 2 o'clock p. m., had been of the most desperate character, and 
the ground all round was strewn with killed and wounded. Side by side in 
death lay the Blue and the Gray, while here and there desperately wounded 
Yankees and Confederates lying on the field would talk over the day's 
work and speculate on the result of the battle to be fought on the morrow. 

Very early on the morning of July 3, Major Hartshornc sent Captain 
Frank Bell, with Company I, and Captain John A. Wolff with Company 
F, to attack and develop the strength of the enemy on our left flank in the 
Devil's Den. These two companies, deployed in line of skirmishers, cau- 
tiously advanced. When they reached the edge of the Devil's Den, they 
encountered the enemy strongly posted behind rocks and trees. The 
fighting at once became very severe ; the enemy's fire indicated a large 
force, and their position was so strong that any attempt to carry it by 
storm with so small a body of troops must prove disastrous. Taking cover, 
the Bucktails opened a rapid fire, hoping to punish the enemy so severely 
as to either compel him to retire or come out of his stronghold to drive 
them off. The reader will bear in mind that the Bucktails were armed 
with beech-loading rifles, some of the companies with Spencer repeating 
rifles; the great advantage of these arms, when firing from cover, is known 
by all soldiers. Any object that will cover the body is all the protection 
a man armed with a breech-loading rifles wants. He is not exposed in 
loading, and can load on the run almost as well as when standing still. 
This will account, in part, for the heavy loss, on many occasions, inflicted 
on the enemy by the Bucktails when their loss was comparatively very 
small. On this occasion, the superiority of the arms, soon gave them a 
very decided advantage. Whenever a rebel exposed any part of his body 
he was sure to be hit and the result, notwithstanding their superiority in 
numbers, was only a question of time. The Bucktails were punishing 
them severely with no loss, since they had taken cover. The enemy dis- 
covered that they were playing a losing game, made a dash on the handful 
of brave men who were opposing them. Their numbers surprised the 
Bucktiiils, and to prevent the capture of their little party, they beat a 
hasty retreat, glad to make their escape and get back to the regiment. 
In this retreat. Captain Bell received a wound which caused the loss of 
a leg, and several others were wounded. The enemy, strange to say, did 
not follow up their advantage, but, seemingly satisfied with driving off the 
party in their front, returned to their first position. Major Hartshoi-ue, 
determined to make them develop their purpose, ordered Lieutenant Kratzer 
to take his company (K) and make another effort to rout them. The 
regiment being constantly engaged in the front, no considerable force 
could be spared. Deploying his company in line of skirmishers. Lieuten- 
ant Kratzer gave them the word when they started forward on a run. 
The rebels permitted them to get so close that their features could be 
easily distinguished and the bore of their guns plainly seen when they 
sprang from their cover and fired a volley that killed and wounded about 



306 Pennsylvania at Oettyshurg. 

one-third of the number. A Confederate officer close by called to Kratzer 
to surrender ; the brave lieutenant answered him with a shot from his 
revolver ; the Confederate returned the shot, when Kratzer fired again 
and his foe fell. One of Kratzer's men called his attention to blood on 
his hand ; the lieutenant replied that he was shot through the arm above 
the elbow. After firing this volley the Confederate officers compelled 
their men to lie down ; the lines were so close that their commands were 
distinctly heard though spoken in an ordinary tone. 

It was now near 2 o'clock p. m. and preparations were being made 
for a general attack on this part of the line. Major Hartshorne therefore 
called in the party sent out with Lieutenant Kratzer. About 3 o'clock the 
brigade advanced in line; charging on the enemy they drove him through 
the woods to the wheatfield, on through the field and through the strii> 
of woods beyond into the peach orchard, capturing several hundred pris- 
oners and completely destroying the Confederate line in their front. Early 
that morning Major Hartshorne had informed Colonel McCaudiess, com- 
manding the brigade, of the force on his left in the Devil's Den. Colonel 
McCandless having nothing to fear from the line in his front determined 
to pay his respects to that party; he therefore directed Major Hartshorne 
to change front to the left and charge with the Bucktails in that direction, 
while he would form the rest of the brigade in column by regiment closed 
in mass and follow him at supporting distance. 

The Bucktails in line of skirmishers moved forward through the woods at 
double-quick for several hundred yards, when they came upon a line 
of the enemy in position. With a cheer they rushed on them, when they 
had another hand-to-hand fight with what proved to be the Fifteenth 
Georgia Regiment. The Georgians stood up bravely for fifteen or twenty 
minutes when they threw down their arms, the Bucktails capturing the 
entire command with their colors. Turning the prisoners over to the troops 
in the rear the Bucktails pushed on through the woods into open country, 
when Colonel McCandless deployed the brigade into line and moved forward 
capturing quite a number of prisoners. He continued till there was no 
enemy to be seen in our front and night put an end to our fighting, when 
the brigade rested for the night fully one mile in front of Little Round Top. 

By this movement Colonel McCandless completely flanked the Devil's 
Den and forced the enemy to retreat from a position that it would have 
been next to impossible to have driven him by a direct attack. So ended 
the battle of Gettysburg. The last shot, the Bucktails claim, was fired by 
them on nearly the same ground where the battle of July 2 was opened 
by Longstreet's attack on Sickles. 

In the two days' fighting the Bucktails total loss was forty-seven. Killed, 
two officers and eight enlisted men; wounded, eight officers and thirty 
enlisted men. The loss in officers was unusually severe, nine officers out 
of a total loss of forty-seven. 

It will be observed that from the time the Pennsylvania Reserves entered 
the fight until the end the Confederates on this part of the line fought 
entirely on the defensive ; up to that time they were the attacking party 
and were flushed with victory. They had driven the Third Corps, with 
terrible slaughter, through the peach orchard, met the Regulars in the 



Pennsylvania at (tcftijshiirf/. Ii07 

wheatfitld, and, after hard fighting and hoavy loss on both sidos, drove 
them back across Plum run and were on the eve of capturing Little liound 
Top, the real key to Meade's position, when they met the Pennsylvania 
Reserves and in less than twenty minutes the tide was turned and we 
became the attacking party. 

The "Buckails" or "First Rifle" Regiment, Pennsylvania Reserve Vol- 
unteer Corps was organized early in May, 1861, under a State law passed 
by the Legislature and approved by the Governor May 15. They were not 
called into the United States service until the latter part of June, when they, 
with the Fifth Pennsylvania Reserves and Captain Campbell's Battery A, 
Pennsylvania Reserve Volunteer Corps, were ordered to West Virginia. 
The regiment never was regularly mustered into the United States service. 
Some question arising in regard to pay, and the authorities refusing to 
date a muster back to the time when the regiment entered the service, 
and Colonel Biddle refusing to permit a muster several months after entry 
into service, the matter was compromised. We were instructed to enter 
upon our rolls as mustered into service "by order of the Secretary of 
War, May 29, 1861." All the companies composing this regiment were 
enlisted prior to May 15, in fact these men enlisted under the first call 
for three-mouths' men, but found the quota of the State filled before they 
reached Harrisburg. 

The first battle in which the regiment was engaged was Dranesville, De- 
cember 20, 1861; the last battle was at Bethesda Church, May 30, 1864. 
A large number of the men re-enlisted and served until the close of the 
war in the One hundred and ninetieth Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteers. 

The peculiar field tactics employed by this regiment originated with 
Lieutenant-Colonel (later Brigadier-General) Thomas L. Kane. They were 
much the same as those recently adopted by the War Department for 
the United States Army. When exposed to a heavy fire the Bucktails 
were instructed to scatter, and at all times were required to take advant- 
age of whatever cover the ground afforded. If any part of the line was 
better protected than another, the men in that location would push forward 
and vigorously engage the enemy, under cover of their fire the more ex- 
posed part of the line would rush forward. Great responsibility was 
thrown upon the individual soldier. They were taught to take care of 
themselves and to take advantage of every opportunity for an advance of 
the line. In many instances the men have, of their own accord, without 
orders, rushed forward when under heavy fire and gained important ad- 
vantage. They were taught to estimate distances on various formations, 
the estimates being proven by actual measurements, and, except when in 
general line of battle, to fire only when they had an object fairly in the 
sights of their rifle. In addition they were skilled marksmen and were con- 
stantly practicing at long range, from two hundred to one thousand yards. 
To their peculiar tactics, constant practice, individual responsibility and 
good marksmanship, can be credited the fearful punishment inflicted upon 
the enemy in every action in which they were engaged without a propor- 
tionate loss to them. 



o08 Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 



DEDICATION OF IVIONUMENT 

46TH REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

SEPTEilBER 12, 1889 

ADDRESS OF CAPTAIN JOSEPH MATCHETT 

FRIENDS and comrades of the old Forty-sixth: — Twenty-six years 
ago this last July we stood upon this ground to defend our country 
from the assaults of those who in their madness would trample this 
glorious banner in the dust. What grand momentous days and nights these 
were on this 1st, 2d and 3d of July, 1863, when the destiny of our nation 
hung in the balance, and the people all over our Northland had their eyes 
fixed on this army, trembling for fear that your courage or prowess would 
fail you, as your enemy, flushed with victories in Virginia, had boldly 
invaded our free northern homes, determined to crush this army, cap- 
ture our rich cities, and plant their standard on the dome of the capitol, 
and there dictate terms of peace to our government. 

My dear comrades, it may be superfluous in me to recount to you the 
movements that culminated in placing us here in front of Gettysburg, on 
the 1st day of July, 1863. 

The disastrous battle of Chancellorsville on the 1st, 2d and 3d of May is 
yet very fresh at this day in your memories, at least it is in mine, as 
well as all the more than a score of important battles in which we were 
engaged. They seem to be indelibly photographed on the tablets of my 
memorjf, so that, eithei' waking or sleeping, they often pass in panoramic 
view to my vision. 

It was after the success of General Lee in that engagement that he 
determined to move his army across the Potomac, and invade the soil of 
the Keystone State, and to carry devastation to your homes and flresides. 
Little did he think that by this act he would be "bearding the lion in his 
den," because, my comrades, you well know that heretofore, by your valor 
on many bloody fields, you had proven your willingness to do and die 
for our dear Union. Now, when your soil was desecrated with the tread 
of this traitorous band, your paternal partiotic blood was so inflamed that 
you could give a double life to free .your State from the despoiler. So, 
as his array moved northward, you were moved along on parallel lines 
between him and the capital at Washington ; and late in June you crossed 
the Potomac at Leesburg and marched through "Maryland, My Maryland," 
with banners flying and with cheerful step to music of our band, through 
historic old Frederick City. There "Fighting" Joe Hooker left us, but 
we cheerfully followed the faithful Meade, asking no questions; our cause 
was just the same whoever was put in command of us ; we had no time 
for cavilling or fault-finding. 



*Organized at Hai-ri.sburg October 31, 1S61, to serve three years. On the expiration of its 
term of service the original members (except veterans) were mustered out and the 
organization composed of veterans and recruits retained in service until July 16, lS6o, 
when it was mustered out. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 309 

You remember the dusty hot murch through Littlestown , with the ripe, 
tempting- cherries overhead, that you had no time to gather; some of the 
boys said they were sour. You had only time to grasp a cup of cold water, 
or a piece of bread or pie that the villagers (God bless them) handed out 
the gateway to you as you hastened on into old Pennsylvania, with words 
of cheer from our friends, and the songs of the children, as we marched 
to their tune of "Marching along, we are marching along, for God and 
our country we are marching along." You went into camp beyond the 
town. Next day was the 30th of June, and you were hastily drawn up in 
line to be mustered so as to have the pay-rolls sent on. You were then 
ordered to support the cavalry in their brush with the rebel cavalry at 
Hanover. Bright and early next morning, after a hasty breakfast of 
coffee, crackers and pork, we took up our march in the direction of Gettys- 
burg; infantry in the fields, artillery and wagons on the road. Recklessly 
tramping down the ripening golden grain in your pathway, the Twelfth 
Corps moved along, led by the gallant Slocum, mai'ching towards the sound 
of the cannon as it echoed over the hill from Gettysburg, where the ball had 
opened and our men had met the enemy. 

My comrades, you felt then that you were approaching the momentous 
moment of your life, and the life of the nation, and your courage and 
determination rose with the occasion. You were going to redeem Chan- 
cellorsville ; you got your fighting blood again flowing through your veins, 
and there was not a man of you who was not willing to die if need be for 
our grand old State and the nation. And where, in all the wide world, 
and in all its history, was a more appropriate time or a grander incentive 
for man to give up his mortal life, a willing, sacrifice for God, and home, 
and this glorious land. Not but what 3'our life was sweet to you, and 
those left in the dear old home were precious to you, and you to them. 
Oh, no! Your country at this time, and her honor, and your honor, was 
transcendently more dear, more precious (if such could be) for the time 
being, than father or mother, wife or children, for you stood now between 
them and their despoilers, their safety wrapped up in your success, as a 
world stood watching for the result of that battle. 

True, we were only boys then, but oh! what patriotic blood flowed in 
your veins in commingling of the freedom-loving races. The Celtic, Ger- 
man, Norman, Scotch-Irish, Cymric, the Anglo-Saxon, all combining as one 
around the grandest of flags, the star-spangled banner. Blest emblem of 
liberty. Hope of the Avorld. 

As you drew nearer, the sound of the cannon was plainer to you ; you 
could hear the bursting shells, then the steady roll of musketry, and you 
knew that death was reaping his harvest ; the old Forty-sixth had been 
there many a time, and knew what it all meant. And the smoke of battle 
went up on high ; you were now in the battle zone, your whole surrounding 
atmosphere was changed. There was less of song, and jokes in general 
fell flat; and playing cards — the boys had no use for them now, so they 
sowed them in the fields, scattered them along the highway; watches and 
other valuables wer^ given to non-combatants, to be sent home to dear ones, 
should yon be among the slain. The cavalry and the First and Eleventh 
Corps, it seems, had met the enemy in large numbers beyond the town, 

21 



310 Pennsylvunia at Gettyshurg. 

and had uobly kept them in check as long as possible until at last they 
doubled up our men, who were compelled to fall back thi'ough the town 
to Cemetery Hill, after losing their noble commander, the brave Reynolds, 
who was shot while leading them on. Our corps moved on past "Two 
Taverns," and then our division filed to the right towards Wolf Hill; we 
unslung knapsacks, loading our guns, and deployed in line of battle in the 
woods, with the intention of making a connection with the right of the 
Eleventh Corps, but they had been farced to fall back, which changed 
the situation ; but our presence there prevented an intended flank move- 
ment which the enemy attempted to make. Night coming on, caused a 
lull in the battle, and ended the slaughter for that day. The regiment was 
moved over again to the Baltimore pike and rested on their arms that night. 

Hostilities commenced very early in the morning, and you were moved 
in here and took up this iX)sition, and hastily put up a line of works, with 
logs, stones and dirt, using what tools you could get, right on the line of 
the works you now see before you. 

Late that afternoon when Sickles' Third Corps was hotly pressed over 
on the left-center, the brigade was hastily sent over across the fields to 
his relief, towards Little Round Top, coming only in contact with the havoc 
of the enemy's shells in that sharp fight. The enemy were checked, and 
Sickles' men .secured their new ground. Sometime in the night we were 
ordered to return to our works on the right at Culp's Hill. But, alr.s! in 
our absence the enemy under Johnson, had taken our works, as there had 
been no troops put in our place to oppose them, and in fact he had marched 
his men as far over as the Baltimore pike. Then he became suspicious 
that there was a trap set for him, and ordered his men back again to our 
works, thereby losing his grandest opportunity of the war. He was right 
in behind our army. Comrades, there was to my mind a Providence in 
this. They were made afraid when there was nothing to fear. On coming 
back we found them in our works sure enough. In fact if it had not been 
for the forethought of our Colonel Selfridge, we would have marched by the 
flank right into their lines. 

It seems Captain Selfridge of Company H, had taken some of his men's 
canteens and gone on ahead to Spangler's spring to fill them, when he 
discovered "Johnnies" also there filling their canteens. He backed out 
with the best grace he could command, and reported it to the colonel. But 
Colonel McDougall, the brigade commander, did not believe it and got 
very angry, but the colonel insisted on deploying his men, and sent in a 
skirmish line, who found the enemy as stated and saved many lives. 

We were then formed around this point, our left on Geary's Division, 
and our brigade connecting on the right with the Third Brigade, when we 
rested on our arms again until the morning. Bright and early our artillery 
which had been posted in our rear, opened on the rebels in the woods, the 
shells passing over us ; we were so near the enemy that six men of the 
regiment were killed by the exjjlosion of our own shells. 

About 11 o'clock we opened on them with musketry, and a general ad- 
vance was made, and they were driven from our works, which we again 
occupied, and kept the enemy at bay, while their sharp.shooters on those 
tree tops gave us great concern, until in the afternoon when that grand 



Pennsylvania at Gettj/shiir;/. 311 

event that stands out now at this day as the tuniinji- point of the rebellion 
took phice. I refer to Pickett's charge on the center of the lino. 

At a given signal one hundred and sixty of the enemy's cannon oponed 
fire on the Union line, and were answered by one hundred cannon from our 
side, making the very earth shake. And then came their charging column 
over that wide field, only to be swept away before the leaden hail of the 
boye in blue, which you could plainly hear. Also their shells came tearing 
down our lines through the tree tops. Johnson made repeated attacks on 
us that night, and many of his men were cut down in our front. 

Gettysburg battle had been fought and won. The nnn'ning light of 
July i, showed no rebels in your front, except many of their dead a few 
steps in front of your works, and many in the woods beyond ; many trees 
were cut to pieces with your bulb'ts along your line. 

A reconnoisauce of the brigade and a battery of artillery down the Balti- 
more pike and over to Hanover pike and back around through the town, 
proved that the enemy had left us masters of the field. 

Your losses in killed, wounded and missing are not reported as large as 
some regiments who fought in this battle. You had somewhere about two 
hundred men in the battle. The official report says two hundi-ed and 
sixty-two, and killed, two men; wounded, one officer and nine men; missing, 
one man . 

I am convinced that our losses were greater than this. However, losses 
do not always denote success ; our sheltered position in this battle gave 
us an advantage, while inflicting greater injury on the enemy than some 
perchance who had heavier losses. It was seldom that the Forty-sixth had 
the advantage of works, as the number of killed and wounded during your 
four-years' service will show, und(>r the darint; imi)etuous Kuipe or the 
gallant gray-headed Self ridge. 

Our capital city was saved, and our State redeemed, and the honor of 
our flag sustained. But oh! at what a cost. How proud should you be 
that you had a part in this achievement. 

Our hope had been that the enemy would be crushed and the war 
ended here, but in this we were sadly disappointed. After resting a couple 
of days we followed him to the Potomac, and down into Virginia to the 
Rappahannock river, and at Brandy Station an order came to transfer the 
Eleventh and Twelfth Corps to the Southwestern army, under General 
Sherman's command, in Tennessee, where you went by rail to Nashville. 
The old 8iar Corps and the Crescent Corps were there united, forming 
the Twentieth Corps, and retaining the Star as the badge to our delight, 
and were placed under command of the redoubtable "fighter," Joe Hooker 
again, and in the Army of the Cumberland under Pap Thomas and with 
old Pap Williams commanding our division . And the corps marched on 
to further glory in the southland. Fighting above the clouds at Lookout 
JNIountain, and at Tunnel Hill, Missionary Ridge, Buzzard's Roost, Snake 
Creek Gap, Cassville, Resaca, Lost Mountain, Kolb's Farm, Kenesaw 
Mountain, Big Shanty, Marietta, Chattahoochie, Peach Tree Creek, Atlan- 
ta and then on to the sea through Georgia and captured the fair city of Sa- 
vannah at Christmas, 1864. Where, after a brief rest and necessary supplies, 
you crossed the river into South Carolina, the hot-bed of treason, driving 



312 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

the enemy under Hardee in all directions, and got in the rear of Charles- 
ton, and took Columbia. Fought again at Averasboro, Fayetteville, 
Cheraw, Bentonville, Chesterfield, C. H., arriving in Goldsboro, N. C, 
the latter end of March, 1865. 

After getting clothing which you greatly needed, we moved on towards 
Johnston's army at Raleigh, when we got the glad news of the surrender 
of Lee's army to Grant; what a joyful day that was. Then soon thereafter, 
on April 27, Johnston surrendered to Sheridan, and, thank God, the war 
was over, and the Union was saved. Then commenced your homeward 
march to Richmond, and Washington and the grand review, and your dis- 
charge at Harrisburg, Pa., July 16, 1865, with the thanks of Congress. 

And now, my comrades, in closing I would add, that I congratulate you 
on having had this starry emblem for your corps badge; we believe it the 
grandest of them all. What memories cluster around this emblem. We 
read in the Bible of "the star guiding the wise men to the manger in Bethle- 
hem," "and that the morning stars sang together;" also, "can you bind the 
sweet bands of Orion," etc. 

Our emblem is represented everywhere in nature. On the earth you find 
it as it is delineated on the beautiful flower ; you find it portrayed in the 
beautiful snow, as it falls in tiny starry flakes, carpeting the earth in 
winter; you find it in the star-fish of the mighty-deep, or as it flashes in 
phosphoric stars at the vessel's bow as it plows the ocean, and all earth, and 
the heavens, as well as this granite monument, will continue to perpetu- 
ate the memory of the Old Star Corps. 

And, comrades, my prayer is "that when your star shall set at life's close, 
it may set, as sets the morning star which goeth not down in the darkened 
west, but melteth away into the brightness of Heaven ;" may God bless 
vou . 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

49TH REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

September 11, 1889 
ADDRESS OF CAPTAIN JOSEPH B. DOWNING 

THE Forty-ninth Regiment of Pennsylvania Volunteers was organized 
at Camp Curtin near Harrisburg, Pa., under the call of President 
Lincoln for three hundred thousand men for three years or during 
the war, in the month of September, 1861, by the selection of the following 
field and staff officers: 

Colonel, William H. Irwin, of Lewistown, Pa. ; Lieutenant-Colonel, Wil- 
liam Brisbane, of Luzerne county. Pa., Major, Thomas M. Hulings, of 

♦Organized at Harrisburg and Lewistown, October 24, 1861, to serve three years. On the 
expiration of its term of service the original members (except veterans) were mustered 
out and the organization composed of veterans and recruits retained in service until 
July 15, IS60, when it was mustered out. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 313 

Mifflin county. Pa. ; Adjutant, James M. Miller, of Dauphin county. Pa. ; 
Quartermaster, John H. Gray, of Chester county, Pa. ; Surgeon, William 
H. Gobrecht, of Philadelphia, Pa.; Assistant Surgeon, John F. Huber, of 
Lancaster county. Pa. ; Chaplain, Rev. William Earnshaw, of the Metho- 
dist Episcopal Church. 

The companies were enlisted in different parts of the State ; A and G 
from Centre county; B and F from Chester, C and D from Huntingdon, 
E. H and K from Mifflin and I from Juniata. The companies were 
ofBcered as follows: 

A — Captain, J. Miles Green; First Lieutenant, Andrew S. Davidson; 
Second Lieutenant, R. D. Harper. B — Captain, George F. Smith; First 
Lieutenant, Baynton J. Hickman; Second Lieutenant, Isaac B. Parker, 
Jr. C — Captain, John B. Miles; First Lieutenant, James B. Eckeberger; 

Second Lieutenant, . D — Captain, James D. Campbell; 

First liieutenant, John H. Westbrook ; Second Lieutenant, F. Y. Mc- 
Donald. E — Captain, Henry A. Zollinger First Lieutenant, Amor W. 
Wakefield; Second Lieutenant, John Hancock. F — Captain, Benjamin 
H. Sweeney; First Lieutenant, F. W. Wombacker ; Second Lieutenant, 
Don Juan Wallings. G — Captain, John Boal ; First Lieutenant, A. B. 
Hutchison; Second Lieutenant, William Reed. H — Captain, Ralph L. 
Maclay ; First Lieutenant, William G. Mitchell; Second Lieutenant, John 
Cox. I— Captain, Cavlin DeWitt; First Lieutenant, R. M. McClellan ; 
Second Lieutenant, David B. Spanogle. K — Captain, Matthias Neice ; 
First Lieutenant, John R. Keim ; Second Lieutenant, Thomas F. Neice. 

Of the above named officers the following obtained distinction in other 
commands as follows: 

Chaplain Earnshaw resigned October 9, 1862, and was shortly afterwards 
appointed chaplain in the United States army where he served during the 
war. At the close of the war he was appointed on a commission to collect 
the remains of our gallant dead and have them removed to the National 
cemeteries, and by his personal appeal to Hon. Henry Wilson, Chair- 
man of the Military Committee of the Senate, an appropriation was passed 
t)roviding for a marble head and foot stone for every Union soldier so 
buried. After the completion of this service' he was sent as chaplain to 
the Soldiers' Home in Dayton, Ohio, where he remained until his death in 
1885. 

Captain George F. Smith was, in March, 1862, appointed to the majority 
of the Sixty-first Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers with which command he 
remained until nearly the close of the war, being promoted in the meantime 
respectively to lieutenant-colonel and colonel of the regiment. 

Lieutenant William G. Mitchell was appointed aide-de-camp on the staff 
of General Hancock, with whom he served until his death in 1883. During 
the war Mitchell rose to the rank of brigadier-general of volunteers, and at 
the close of the war was appointed captain of the United States army on the 
staff, and one of the last official acts of the lamented President Garfield was 
to promote him to major and ae.sistant adjutant-general. 

Lieutenant John Hancock, brother of the general, was appointed captain 
and assistant adjutant-general at General Hancock's headquarters with 
whom he remained until the end of the rebellion. 



314 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

• 
Lieutenant Isaac B. Parker, Jr., was also appointed an aide-de-camp to 
General Hancock and rose to the rank of lieutenant-colonel and was mus- 
tered out at the close of the war- 
On September 19, 1861, the quartermaster's department issued the arms 
to the different companies. They consisted of Harper's Ferry muskets that 
had been changed from flint lock to percussion of .68 caliber. The ammuni- 
tion was a cartridge made with powder, a round bullet and three buckshot. 
The muskets were very unserviceable, being about as dangerous to the sol- 
dier who used them as they would have been to an enemy in his front. 

During the following winter, before the regiment had been engaged with 
the enemy, they were exchanged for Austrian rifles of .54 caliber, using a 
minie ball cartridge. 

On September 20, 1861, after the dress-parade. Governor A. G. Curtin and 
his staff appeared and presented to the regiment the National and State 
flags, which were received in an able, eloquent and patriotic speech by Colo- 
nel Irwin. In the course of his remarks the colonel said "that while he bad 
an arm to wield a sword or a man to fire a gun, the colors should never drop 
in the face of an enemy nor be desecrated by the touch of rebel hands," and 
that promise was faithfully kept although the dear old colors were torn to 
shreds by shot and shell of the enemy. 

On the next day, September 21, reveille sounded at 4 a. m. with orders to 
break camp and prepare to move to the seat of war, and later in the day the 
regiment was loaded on cars of the Northern Central Railroad Company. 
The train was run in two sections. When within twelve or fifteen miles of 
Baltimore the second section ran into the first, in which accident two men 
of Company G (Parker and Fulton) were killed and three others injured. 
Arrived in Baltimore about midnight, disembarked and marched from the 
Northern Central to the Baltimore and Ohio station. Early the next morn- 
ing the command was fed by the Union Relief Association and about 9a.m. 
took cars and arrived in Washington about 2 p. ra., went to the Soldiers Re- 
treat for rations and then into camp on the common about one mile north of 
the capitol. Here we remained five days, drilling, doing camp duty, etc. 
On September 27, we struck tents and moved out through Washington and 
Georgetown up the Potomac "about eight miles to Chain Bridge which we 
crossed into Virginia and went into camp about 9 p. m. at Camp Advance. 
It had rained hard all day and when camp was reached, tired, wet and 
hungry and no trains arriving, without tents and rations, the men felt that 
they had fallen on hard lines. 

On September 28, Hancock's famous brigade was formed consisting of the 
Fifth Wisconsin Volunteers, Sixth Maine, Forty-third New York and Forty- 
ninth Pennsylvania. This brigade, with Brooks' Second, Third, Fourth and 
Fifth A^ei-mont regiments, Seventh Maine, Thirty-third and Forty-ninth New 
York and the Forty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers made up the division 
and was commanded by Brigadier-General William F. (Baldy) Smith. On 
this day there appeared great warlike movements. Many regiments moving, 
strong fortifications in view and a battle looked for. Two companies of the 
Forty-ninth ordered out on a reconnoitering expedition, marched very rapidly 
at first, then cautiously for some miles. No enemy being found they re 
turned to camp about midnight. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 315 



The next day, September 29, about 5 a. m., an alarm was sounded and the 
Forty-ninth immediately fell into line expecting an attack until 11 a. m. 
After dress-parade in the evcniim ("dldncl Irwin drilled the regiment in bat- 
talion drill until after dark. 

September 30, moved a few miles tu the front and went into a new camp, 
"Vanderwerken." The next day asain moved forward to flie villases of 
Langley and Lewinsville and Avent into camp at Camp Griffin and remained 
here until ^lai'ch 10, 1862. The first place at which we pitched our tents 
in this place being on low ground, moved about one-fourth of a mile onto 
higher ground where M'e went into winter quarters. 

On October 24, the regiment was first mustered into the United States ser- 
vice. Through some technical informality the first muster in at Harrisburg 
had been decided illegal and owing to this a great wrong worked to those of 
the regiment who did not re-enlist, compelling them to serve from two to 
three months more than the three years. Notwithstanding the informality 
alleged, the men were paid from the date of enlistment and not from the 
date of muster into the United States service. 

During the stay at Camp (iriflin drills were regular in the school of the 
soldier, squad, company, battalion and skirmish and the evolutions of the 
brigade, and during this work of discipline and becoming acclimated, many 
of the members died and when in the following spring we moved away, we 
left a right large sized burial ground. 

On November 20, the regiment participated in the grand review at ^lun- 
.son's Hill, in which the divisions of McCall, McDowell, Heintzelman, Por- 
ter, Franklin, Blenker and South, about ninety regiments of infantry, 
twenty batteries (100 pieces) of nine regiments of cavalry, in all about 
70,000 troops, took part. 

Immediately after the Forty-ninth had passed the reviewing stand, Colonel 
Irwin commenced drilling the regiment and blocked up the troops that were 
Iiassing in review. General Hancock rode up rapidly when he had found the 
<fause of the trouble, placed Colonel Irwin in arrest, and the regiment worn 
out with the fatigues of the day, straggled back to camp where they all ar- 
rived during the night. For this breach of discipline Colonel Irwin was 
tried by court martial. 

About this time several changes took place among the line officers. Lieu- 
tenant Harper, of Company A, resigned. Lieutenant Reed, of Company G, 
resigned and Sergeant .7. T. Stuart was promoted; Lieutenant Spanogle, of 
Company I, resigned and Sergeant John Stewart promoted; Lieutenant John 
R. Keira resigned and Sergeant William B. Freeburn promoted; Adjutant 
J. ^I. Miller resigned, and Sergeant Major E. D. Smith promoted. 

On March 6, regiment went on a reconnoisance to Hunter's Mill, and re- 
turned to camp on the Oth. The next day the whole army moved to Fairfax 
Court House, and finding the enemy had evacuated his position at Bull Run 
and Centreville we retraced our steps to Alexandria and embarked for Fort- 
ress Monroe, and the penninsular campaign was inaugurated. At the time of 
the embarkation of our brigade it seemed necessary to put two regiments on 
one boat and the Forty-Third New York and Forty-ninth Pennsylvania Vol- 
unteers were placed on board the steamer North America. Shortly after an 
altercation took place between the men of the two regiments which rendered 



316 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

it necessary to remove the Forty-third New York to another vessel and they 
departed from the steamer to the tune of "Bully for You" from the Forty- 
ninth band . After which episode the North America proceeded on her way 
and landed us safely at Fortress Monroe. 

Upon our arrival upon the Peninsula the army was organized into corps 
and Smith's Division with Couch's and Casey's formed the Fourth \rmy 
Corps and was commanded by General E. D. Keyes. 

Went into camp near Hampton, Virginia, moved forward by slow and 
easy marches up the Peninsula. Early in April, our advance reached War- 
wick river near Lee's Mills. A spirited advance and attack was made by 
the Vermont Brigade but was repulsed. On that night the Forty-ninth was 
moved up to the front and threw up rifle pits. When we arrived on the 
ground by some error the regiment stacked arms with the right flank in the 
direction of the enemy. A little after daylight the next morning a heavy 
cannonade was opened on us and the rebs quickly got the range of our 
stacked muskets. Orders were not waited for but personal preservation 
was the order of the day. Every man broke for a gun and then to the rear, 
to the timber, where the lines were reformed and the scare was over. Re- 
mained in this vicinity until May 4. 

On April 28, the regiment lost its first man killed by the enemy ; Corporal 
Watson, of Company A, was killed on the picket line. While remaining in 
this position many of the men were sick. Water was exceedingly bad and 
plenty of it only twelve or eighteen inches under the surface of the ground. 

The siege of Yorktown closed on May 4th, by the evacuation of the enemy 
and we immediately started in pursuit, arriving in the vicinity of Williams- 
burg at dark. The battle opened early on the 5th, by the advance of Heint- 
zelman's Third Corps Divisions of Hooker and Kearny. 

Hancock's Brigade moved to the right and came to a large mill dam. The 
bridge crossed on the dam breast. This dam breast was covered by an 
earthwork but it was unoccupied and the crossing was made without inter- 
ference. A line of battle was formed with the left resting on the stream. 
Sixth Maine on the right, Fifth Wisconsin in the center. Forty-ninth on the 
left and the Forty-third New York thrown out as skirmishers. Moved for- 
ward from one-half mile to a mile without much opposition, and then held 
our ground until the middle of the afternoon when EwelFs Brigade advanced 
on us expecting to capture the brigade. Their impetuous advance threw the 
Forty-third New York in on the right, and as the enemy neared us Hancock 
ordered a retreat by alternate battalions, leading the advancing column away 
from their supports until we had good ground both to hold and advance from ; 
when Hancock directed a charge upon the advancing enemy. This was 
Hancock's famous charge at Williamsburg. The enemy was beaten with 
great loss, in killed, wounded and captured, and the way was opened for the 
flanking and destruction of Margruder's army. But we were satisfied with 
the repulse and allowed Magruder to depart in peace. The loss of the 
Forty-ninth in this engagement was one killed, David GUbert, and six slight- 
ly wounded. 

On May 8, three days after the battle, we advanced leisurely up the Pen- 
insula, noting, by destroyed stores, the hurry the enemy had been in on their 
retreat, passing Burnt Ordinary and New Kent Court House and arrived at 
Cumberland Landing and West Point on the Pamunkey. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 317 

At this point the Sixth Corps was created, composed of the Division of 
Smith and Franldin (now Slocum's) and commanded by General W B. 
Franklin, and from this time to the end of the war the Forty-ninth Pennsyl- 
vania Volunteei's formed a part of this famous command. 

The next march brought us to Cold Harbor, and the next to the banks of 
the Chickahominy, and the siege of Richmond was inaugurated. The regi- 
ment remained on the north bank of the Chickahominy until about June 15, 
when we crossed to the south side and took up line of battle near Garnett's 
Hill. The malarial swamps in this vicinity were very destructive to the 
regiment. Very many sickened and numbers died. 

On the afternoon of June 27, the fighting commenced in our front. The 
regiment supported artillery and was under heavy artillery firing during the 
afternoon, and about sunset the enemy advanced but was handsomely re- 
pulsed. The Forty-ninth lost five killed and about fifteen wounded, one 
mortally. The next day, 28th, regiment engaged at Golding's farm and the 
brigade captured Colonel L. Q. C. Lamar of Mississippi. In this day's en- 
gagement regiment lost two killed and several wounded . 

Regiment was engaged at Savage Station June 29, White Oak Swamp 
June 30 and Malvern Hill July 1 and arrived at Harrison's Landing on July 
2 through a drenching rain and mud knee deep. The retreat ended and the 
base changed; 

The regiment and the army remained at Harrison's until August 15, then 
moved down the peninsula to Fortress Monroe and embarked on the steamer 
INIontreal and arrived at Alexandria on Sunday afternoon, August 24, where 
we remained until the 29th. On the morning of this day we marched off in 
great haste to the relief of Pope and arrived at Annandale in the evening, 
having made the prodigious march of four miles in one day. The next day 
marched to Centreville but arrived too late to do anything for Pope as the 
second battle of Bull Run had been fought and lost before our arrival. We 
occupied the forts around Centreville and prevented the further advance of 
the enemy in that direction. But while in this position, were in great danger 
of being cut off by the advance of the enemy to Chantilly. The regiment re- 
turned with the army to Washington, crossed the Potomac at Long Bridge, 
through Washington and Georgetown to Tennallytown. Then on the Mary- 
land campaign to Crampton's Gap into Pleasant Valley and remained there 
until Harper's Ferry capitulated and the battle of Antietam well on, when 
the regiment with the corps moved in rear from right of the whole 
army through Boonsboro, etc., and went into the engagement on the extreme 
right, relieving Sumner's Corps. Upon our arrival at the front. General 
Richardson having been mortally wounded. General Hancock, our beloved 
brigade commander, was appointed to the command of Richardson's Divi- 
sion of the Second Corps. Our loss in the battle was slight; one killed and a 
few wounded. The one killed was Charlie King of Company F, drummer, a 
bright boy of about thirteen years of age. 

After the battle moved to the Potomac near Shepherdstown, thence to 
Bakersville where we encamped about two weeks, then marched to the Penn- 
sylvania line in an attempt to intercept the enemy's cavalry raid. On this 
movement the regiment did picket duty in our native State facing north. 
The enemy succeeded in making his escape and recrossed into Virginia. 



:U8 Pvnnsijlvanla at Gettysburg. 

Regiment returned to Hagerstown and wont into camp and remained there 
until the army again moved south. While at Hagerstown, Lieutenant-Colo- 
nel Brisbane and Chaplain Earnshaw resigned and Major Hulings promoted 
to Lieutenant-colonel and Captain John B. Miles to Major. 

From Hagerstown the regiment moved through Boonsboro, Middletown 
and Petersville, crossed the Potomac at Berlin, down Loudoun Valley to 
White Plains, where he went into camp for a few days. While here, the 
first snow storm of the season occurred, accompanied by very cold weather, 
causing considerable suffering among the men. A number of the regiment 
who went out foraging from this camp were captured by the guerrillas under 
Mosby. The next move' brought us to New Baltimore. Here General Mc- 
Clellan was relieved of the command of the army and General Buruside as- 
signed in his stead. Shortly after this event, the army was organized into 
three grand divisions. The First and Sixth Corps formed the left grand di- 
vision commanded by ^Major-General W. B. Franklin, the Sixth Corps by 
General W. F. Smith, our division by General Howe, General Pratt retain- 
ing the command of the brigade. 

From New Baltimore marched to Aquia Church, to Stafford Court House, 
to Stafford Heights opposite Fredericksburg. The Sixth Corps going into 
camp near White Oak Church. Participated with the left grand division 
in the battle of Fredericksburg, December i2 to 14, 1862. Recrossed the 
river on the Pontoon bridge on the night of the 14th and returned to our old 
camp and remained until the Chancellorsville campaign. 

On January 11, 1863, the regiment having become very much depleted in 
numbers, by a special order from the War Department, was consolidated in- 
to four companies. Companies H and I formed new A, Captain Wakefield, 
First Lieutenant Thompson, Second Taeutenant Hilands. Companies K 
and F and part of E formed new B, Captain Freeburn, First Lieutenant 
Swain, Second Lieutenant Barr. Companies G and D and the balance of E 
formed new C, Captain Hutchison, First Lieutenant Wombacker and Second 
Lieutenant J. P. Smith. Companies A, B and part of C formed new D, 
Captain Quigley, First Lieutenant Sherwood, Second Lieutenant, B H. 
Downing. Captain Hickman was serving at division headquarters as ord- 
nance officer: Captains Campbell and DeWitt resigning. Colonel Irwin, 
Major Miles, Captains Sweeney, Eckeberger and Cox, Lieutenants Ritner, 
E. D. Smith and D. J. Wallings and all the supernumerary non-commis- 
sioned officers were sent to Pennsylvania on recruiting service. The colonel 
and major only remained during the balance of the winter and then rejoined 
the battalion. The rest remained in different parts of the State until No- 
vember 19, 1863, when, by an order from the War Department, the super- 
numerary line officers were mustered out and honorably discharged and the 
non-commissioned officers returned to the regiment and assigned to the new 
companies then being organized. 

The battalion under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Hulings took part 
in the "Mud March." Shortly after the army again exchanged commanders. 
Hooker succeeding Burnside, and the army went back to the corps organiza- 
tion. Among other general officers, Franklin and Smith were relieved and 
Major-General John Sedgwick was assigned to command the Sixth Corps, 
General Brooks the division and General Russell the brigade. About this 



Pennsi/lrdit'Kt at Gettyshurg. 319 

time the light division was fonacd, and twn rcjiinuMits from our brigade 
(Fifth Wisconsin and .Sixth .Maine) were assigned to it. Tlieir places in the 
brigade were filled by two other regiments. 

On May 1, the Chancellorsville campaign opened and the Forty-ninth 
crossed the Rappahannock in pontoon boats under the fire of the enemy. 
They succeeded in ci'ossing and held the ground while the pontoon bridge 
was thrown across. In this engagement Colonel Irwin and Captain P^'ree- 
burn were wounded, the latter mortally. Corporals Cresswell and Bruce 
were also wounded. After the corps succeeded in crossing, the regiment took 
part in its movements and after being almost surrounded after Hooker's de- 
feat, succeeded in escaping across the river at Banks' Ford. 

After Chancellorsville, nothing of imp'jrtauce occurred until Lee made 
his movement north. On June 20, the Forty-ninth and brigade again 
crossed the Rappahannock below Fredericksburg in pontoon boats and cap- 
tured the enemy's pickets and picket reserves and again established our line 
south of the river and entrenched from Deep Run to the Bernard House. 
After completing the works, re-crossed the river and followed the army now 
in pursuit of Lee. Arrived at Fairfax Court House June 26, Edwards' 
Ferry on the Potomac, June 28, crossed to Poolesville, Maryland, and after 
two days' marching arrived at Westminister, Maryland, on the evening of 
July 1, and the first day's battle had been fought at Gettysburg. From 
Westminister marched to Gettysburg, thirty-two miles, in a broiling July 
sun, with but one half to make coffee and get something to eat. Arrived on 
the battlefield about 2 p. m. of the second day and formed the reserve. On 
the night of the 2d, took position on the side of Round Top but were not en- 
gaged. On the morning of the 3d took position on this ground covering the 
left flank of the army. Grant's Vermont Brigade with Russell's formed in 
line at tight angles wdth the main line of the army. Fifth Wisconsin Volun- 
teers on the extreme left and the Forty -ninth joined it on the right. In this 
position held the ground under heavy artillery fire but no casualties are re- 
ported. After the retreat of the enemy, the Sixth Corps led the advance in 
pursuit, first in the direction of Chambersburg, then to the left in the direc- 
tion of Emmitsburg, arriving at the foot of the Catoctin Mountains about 
dark and attempted to cross during the night but, owing to the darkness and 
heavy rains, were compelled to go into camp on the top of the mountain near 
Hamburg. Early the next morning continued our march west through Mid- 
dletown, ci'ossed the South Mountain at Turner's Pass and camped at Boons- 
bo ro. The next day the Forty-ninth, being in the extreme advance of the 
army, were deployed as skirmishers on either side of the National turnpike 
in till' direction of Hagerstown. Skirmishing continued during the day; we 
advancing and the enemy falling back on his main body. When near Wil- 
liamsport, Maryland, in the evening of that same day, in skirmishing. Lieu- 
tenant Swain was wounded through the thigh. No attack in force being 
made that evening the enemy withdrew across the Potomac. The Union 
army crossed at Berlin via Boonsboro, marched through Loudoun Valley and 
went into camp at Warrenton, Virginia, and remained, comparatively in- 
active until November 6, 1863. While in camp here, on October 2-1, Colonel 



320 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

Irwin resigned and returned home, the command devolving on Lieutenant- 
Colonel Hillings. 

On November 6, moved in the direction of Rappahannock Station. On the 
7th, the Forty-ninth again in advance, did the skirmishing untH near evening 
when the Sixth Maine took our place and we returned to the main column. 
By this time we were in front of the enemy's works on the north side of the 
river near the Station, held by Hoke's and Hays' brigades of Lee's army. 
The works were carried by storm and almost all of the enemy captured. 
The severest loss on our side fell to the Fifth Wisconsin and Sixth Maine 
who lost heavily. The loss in the Forty -ninth was three killed, three mortal- 
ly and fifteen others wounded. Among the latter was Captain Hutchison 
and Adjutant J. T. Stuart. Among the severely wounded was Quarter- 
master-Sergeant J. D. W. Henderson who gallantly borrowed a musket and 
went into the fight and was badly wounded. 

From this point the regiment moved to Brandy Station and went into camp 
near Hazel creek where the winter was spent. Early in December a move- 
ment was made to Mine run where the enemy was found in force. No strong 
attack was made, but for two days the regiment was under artUlery fire, dur- 
ing which a shell burst in the regiment, wounded slightly Captain Quigley 
and four men. Returned to the camp and put up winter quarters. About 
this time the supernumerary non-commissioned officers rejoined the regiment, 
and drafted men and substitutes also arriving, four new companies, E, F, G 
and H, were organized and commanded respectively by Wombacker, Sher- 
wood, Stuart and Swain. A new company of volunteers recruited by Ser- 
geant Kephart also joined the regiment and was commanded by Captain W. 
P. Kephart. The regiment now filled to the minimum. Colonel Hulings, 
Lieutenant-Colonel Miles and Major Hickman were mustered in as the field 
oflicers. The supernumerary non-commissioned officers were assigned to the 
new companies. Eight new lieutenants were mustered. Lieutenant Hilands 
promoted to adjutant, and the regiment was well manned and officered for 
the spring campaign, having nine companies well filled, about seven hundred 
and fifty strong, a large regiment for those days. 

On May 4, the regiment moved with the army in the direction of the 
enemy about 10 o'clock who opened a volley on us at about thirty yards, 
formed line of battle and moved forward into the Wilderness. Struck the 
enemy about 10 o'clock who opened a volley on us at about thirty yards. 
More than fifty per cent, of the men in the regiment were new and untried 
and many of them had been compelled to serve by draft, but they stood the 
shock with an invincibility that would have done honor to Napoleon's Im- 
perial Guard in its palmiest days. We drove the enemy back a short dis- 
tance and entrenched. In this engagement the regiment lost about forty 
men, of whom three were killed and two mortally wounded. 

Maintained our position until after dark of the 6th. On this evening the 
enemy in great force attacked the right of our corps and the army and suc- 
ceeded in turning the flank, capturing two brigade commanders in the Third 
Division and many of the men. At the same time the Forty-ninth was sub- 
jected to a very heavy fire, suffering a loss of ten men wounded, one of them 
mortally. After the flanking movement was stopped our line was changed 
at right angles to the one previously held and remained in this position until 
after dark of the 7th when the race for Spotsylvania commenced, the Sixth 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. . 321 

following the Fifth Corps. We arrived at Locust Grove about 3 p. m., Sun- 
day, May 8, and found the Fifth Corps engaged and about to charge the 
enemy. We formed line to support the charge. For some reason it was not 
made. Remained in this position during the night and early on the morning 
of the 9th extended our line taking position on the left of the Fifth Corps 
joining it on our right. While these dispositions were being made, the gal- 
lant and heroic commander of the Sixth Corps, Major-General John Sedg- 
wick, was shot by a sharpshooter and killed. This calamity threw a gloom 
over everyone. All felt that while the army and country had lost a valuable 
and able commander, every member of his gallant corps had lost a personal 
friend. General H. G. Wright succeeded to the command of the corps. 
General Russell of the division. General Elustis of the Third Brigade. With 
the exception of the death of the lamented Sedgwick, this day. May 9, passed 
in comparative quiet in our front. 

About 3 a. m., of May 10, companies D and C, Captains Quigley and 
Stuart, with two companies from the One hundred and nineteenth Pennsyl- 
vania Volunteers, all under command of Captain Landell, were sent forward 
as skirmishers into the dense woods. Advanced about three hundred yards 
and found a strong line of skirmishers of the enemy. We advanced and 
drove them back on their supports and then back on their line of battle in en- 
trenchments. In this advance we reached a cart road at which we stopped, 
still under cover of about seventy-five yards of timber with piles of fence 
rails for barricades. At this point the officer commanding the right of the 
line, ordered the men to hold this road and to protect themselves behind 
trees, rail piles, etc. At this moment a field ofiicer, a lieutenant-colonel, 
rode along and directed the line to advance to the edge of the woods. The 
lieutenant with his men knowing the attempt would result in certain defeat 
obeyed the order and moved forward about forty yards and received a galling 
fire from a line of battle entrenched. The enemy then poured out against us 
and we were driven back two hundred and fifty or three hundred yards into 
the woods fighting as we went. We then halted, faced about, and again 
moved forward under a terrible fire, losing men from our weak line at every 
step. We fought our way back to the cart road and rail piles at which point 
we stopped and held that line. The first time we had reached this position 
with very small loss, but to re-take it cost the two companies more than 
forty men, one-third of whom were killed. We held the position until about 
2 p. m., when we were relieved by companies A and E, Captains Wakefield 
and Wombacker. 

The two relieved companies, D and G, returned to the regiment and rested 
until about 4.30 p. m., when Eustis' Brigade with Upton's and another, mak- 
ing a division of twelve regiments of infantry, under the command of Colonel 
Emory Upton, of the One hundred and twenty-first New York Volunleers, 
moved forward to assault the enemy. The storming column was formed in 
four lines with a front of three regiments and the lines twenty paces apart. 
The same cart road which had been so gallantly fought for and held by the 
skirmishers during the day was the very spot where the assaulting columns 
were formed and from which the charge was made. The Forty-ninth was 
upon the right of the second line and was represented by six companies. 
Companies A and E were still on the skirmish line in front, and Company C 



322 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

was detailed to picket tlie right of the corps. Upon the iiriiis of a signal gun 
the assaulting column dashed forAvard, first through the timber about sev- 
enty-five yards into an open field of about one hundred and fifty to two hun- 
dred yards wide and then into slashed timber aboiit one hundred yards, to 
strongly entrenched works, well manned with infantry and artillery. It 
seemed that when we emerged from our cover of timber, the first line of 
battle had melted away before the destructive fire of the enemy and we who 
had been in the second line now led the charge. We moved rapidly forward 
under a terrible fire of infantry and artillery, across the open field, through 
the slashed timber and over the first line of earthworks filled with the enemy, 
who threw down their arms and were sent to the rear, then forward through 
another line of rifle-pits. While between these two lines we suffered dread- 
fully from a battery about one hundred yards distant on our right which 
threw canister into us by the bushel. A little later the battery was cap- 
tured. Captain Honey of the Sixth Maine cutting down an artilleryman with 
his sword with his hand on the lanyard . The charge was up to this time a 
complete success, but a little while after, owing to the failure of the sup- 
ports to arrive in time to protect our flanks, the enemy on the flanks changed 
front and compelled the withdrawal of the whole force who were able to 
leave the field. The Forty-ninth with the other regiment did all in this 
charge that could possibly be done by the same number of men and with 
the support received, but at dreadful cost. Colonel Hulings, Lieutenant- 
Colonel Miles, Captain Kephart and Lieutenant Lytle were killed ; Captains 
Barr, Quigley and Stuart wounded, the former mortally; Lieutenants Irwin, 
Russell, Hilands, J. B. Downing wounded, and Lieutenant Barton wounded 
and captured. Seventy-one enlisted men killed, twenty -one mortally wound- 
ed and one hundred and eighty-two others wounded and missing. A total of 
two hundred and eighty-six officers and men out of about four hundred and 
fifty engaged, a loss of sixty-three and one-half per cent, of all who went into 
the engagement. The total loss to the regiment in this day's fighting was 
about three hundred and twenty-five men. 

The next day. May 11, it was comparatively quiet in our front. Lieuten- 
ant John M . Thompson was badly wounded in the left arm by a sharpshooter 
while on picket. 

On the morning of May 12, General Hancock, with the Second Corps, 
charged at what afterwards was known as the "Bloody Angle," captured two 
general officers and several thousand prisoners, but was unable to continue 
the movement and the Sixth Corps was sent to his I'elief. The Forty-ninth 
fought the enemy for the whole day at only a few yards distance, as many 
as two hundred rounds of ammunition being used per man, and the muskets 
became so foul and heated that the rifle in the bore was worn smooth, and 
after this fight they would carry a ball thirty yards. They were after- 
wards changed for Springfield rifles. In this fight large oak trees were liter- 
ally cut off by bullets; no artillery could be used. The regiment lost in this 
engagement, sixteen killed, two mortally wounded and about thirty others 
wounded. Among the latter was Captain Wombacker, Lieutenants B. H. 
Downing and Howell. 

The losses in officers in these engagements made the following promotions: 
Major Hickman to lieutenant-colonel. Captain Wakefield to major; Lieuten- 



Pennsylvania at Gettijshurfj. 323 

ant Thompson to captain Company A, Second Lieutenant Wix to first and 
Sergeant J. B. Rodgers to second lieutenant A, Lieutenant Byers to captain 
of I, Hackenberg first lieutenant and D. A. Stahl second lieutenant, John 
S. Bratton to captain B. Samuel H. Irvin first and John J. Hight second 
lieutenant, Joseph W. Wallace first and O. S. Rumberger second lie iten- 
ant of H and Howell and Davison first and second lieutenants of F. 

After the sanguinary engagements of Spotsylvania were ended, moved by 
the left flank to the Pamunkey river and Cold Harbor where the regiment 
was under fire and partly engaged daily from June 1 to 7, losing nine killed, 
two mortally wounded and about thirty others wounded and missing, aioong 
the latter Lieutenant James P. Smith and several men were captured by 
the enemy. Lieutenant Smith was held a prisoner until the following spring 
and rejoined the regiment after Lee's surrender. 

From Cold Harbor moved again by the left and crossed the James river 
and took part in the siege of Petersburg until July 7, 1864. While here 
Colonel Oliver Edwards of the Thirty-seventh INIassachusetts Volunteers 
succeeded General Eustis in command of the brigade. 

On July 7, 1864, a strong force having been sent to menace Washington 
and Baltimore, the Sixth Corps cut loose from the Army of the Potomac and 
took transports at City Point for the National Capital, arriving in Washing- 
ton on the evening of July 9. We raced the enemy from Fort Stevens in the 
defenses of Washington to Snicker's Gap, but they succeeded in cro,ssing the 
Shenandoah and escaped. Returned to Washington passing through our old 
Camp Grifiin on the way. Marched through Maryland to Frederick 'City 
and to Harper's Ferry. By this time the Middle Military Division was 
formed and composed of the Sixth, Eighth and Nineteenth corps, all under 
the command of Major-General Philip H. Sheridan who gained for his troops 
additional glory and they in return made him world-famous by the time the 
campaign ended. 

Shortly after our arrival at Harper's Ferry the small-pox broke out in the 
regiment and it was isolated at Bolivar Heights for about a month. On Sep- 
tember 13, rejoined the division then encamped near Berryville. 

Early on the morning of September 19, moved in the direction of Win- 
chester. Struck the enemy near Opequon creek and fought a fierce battle 
during the whole of the day, the enemy's forces falling back towards Win- 
chester. About noon two brigades of Early's forces which had been sent in 
the direction of Martinsburg returned and made a desperate attack on the 
left of the Nineteenth Corps, driving them back. This repulse uncovered 
the right flank of Russell's Division of the Sixth Corps. Russell put himself 
at the head of the brigade and hurried in to retrieve the disaster, and suc- 
ceeded in stopping the enemy, but in the movement the general was killed, 
shot to death with a cannon ball. General Fi-ank Wheaton succeeded to the 
command of the division. Towards the close of the day, and while the in- 
fantry and artillery were driving the enemy, the cavalry division struck 
them on their left flank, doubling them up and sent them "whirling through 
Winche.ster," winning a glorious victory on the open field. In this engage- 
ment First Lieutenant Joseph W. Wallace was killed and Captain John M. 
Thompson desperately wounded in seven i)lnces by the explosion of a sharp- 



324 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

nel, directly in front of him. Ten enlisted men were killed and about thirty 
wounded, eight of them mortally. 

While the fight was at its height Major Wakefield, who had been awa.v on 
special service, was returning, and hearing the sound of the battle, with two 
or three comrades were burring up from Berry ville to rejoin their commands, 
and when within a mile of the line of the Union army in action were cap- 
tured by gang of Mosby's men and carried around the flank of our army to 
Richmond. He was confined at Danville, Va., until the next spring 

After this engagement the brigade was detailed to guard the post of Win- 
chester, guarding trains to and from Martinsburg, etc., until after the battle 
of Cedar Creek, on October 19, 1864. 

While encamped at Winchester the regiment received from the State a 
new stand of colors which were presented by Colonel Edwards, and received 
(in the part of the regiment by Captain James T. Stuart. 

On October 24, the brigade rejoined the corps at Cedar Creek and re- 
mained there until after the presidential election, then moved midway be- 
tween Middletown and Winchester until about December 6, when the Sixth 
Corps left the valley and returned to the seige of Petersburg. Went into the 
line in front of Yellow House near Fort Wardsworth. The regiment suc- 
ceeded in finding splendid winter quarters built by some soldiers of the Fifth 
Corps. Here we remained, with the exception of a reconnaissance to Hat- 
cher's Run, until April 2, 1865. 

In the last days of March troops in large bodies were passing in the rear 
of us to the left, moving to Five Forks and the series of battles were com- 
mencing to end the rebellion. 

On Sunday morning, April 2, the regiment and brigade (having formed dur- 
ing the previous night in front of Fort Fisher) at the early dawn charged 
the works in our front and broke through the enemy's lines. The regiment 
turned to the left and emptied the rifle pits for about a mile, when troops 
from the Second Corps took our place and continued the movement while we 
faced about and closed in on Petersburg, the Sixth Corps holding the line 
from the Appomattox river to the old rebel line of works. Loss of the regi- 
ment in the engagement, one killed and about a dozen woudnded. Among 
the latter was the adjutant who received a slight saber cut in the left 
hand in going over the rebel entrenchments. 

The movement of this day compelled the evacuation of Richmond and 
Petersburg. Early on the morning of the 3d, started in pursuit of the enemy 
in the direction of Amelia Court House. General Sheridan had been 
pleading for the Sixth Corps from the beginning of the campaign but until 
now Grant had work for them and they could not be spared. The Sixth 
Corps now moved rapidly across the army to the extreme right to Sheri- 
dan's help. We caught up with him at Sailor's creek about 5 p. m., of 
April 6, and immediately formed line of battle under Sheridan's direction, 
the brigade in the following order: Fifth Wisconsin on the right joined 
by the One-hundred and nineteenth Pennsylvania Volunteers, the Forty- 
ninth in the center joined by the Sixth Maine to the left and the Thir'ty- 
seventh Massachusetts on the left of he brigade. While forming Major 
Gray of the One hundred and nineteenth asked the general of the situation. 
He replied aloud, "Boys, Custer is across there (pointing) about two 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 325 

miles with bis cavalry and fourteen pieces of artillery and we're here, 
and Ewell with his corps is between us and if we press them they will 
be in a— tight fix." As soon as the lines were formed we "pressed." Moved 
forward in line of battle down sloping ground to the creek, which we 
crossed, it being from knee to waist deep. After crossing we lay under 
cover of a knoll a few minutes to perfect the alignments. In a few minutes 
Captain Colt of Edwards' staff rode along and directed an advance on the 
double-quick. The enemy was under cover of a woods about one hundred 
and fifty yards in our front and between us open ground. The regiment 
advanced rapidly through a perfect storm of bullets but in fifteen minutes 
it was all over and General Ewell commanding the corps, with seven 
other general officers and about 7,000 officers and men were captured. 
The regiment in this engagement 'was opposed by a regiment of marines 
from Richmond who had never been in an engagement, but. they fought 
valiantly and when flanked and surrounded hardly knew enough to sur- 
render . 

The loss of the regiment in this battle was excessively severe. Owing 
to the hard and wearisome marches made for four days, we carried only 
about 250 men into the battle. Of these fifteen were killed including lieu- 
tenant Hackenberg, six mortally wounded including Lieutenants John B. 
Rodgers and John D. Gillespie, about sixty others were wounded. The 
most distressing part of these losses was that this was our last battle and 
a number of those killed were men who had been with us from the organi- 
zation of the regiment. Notably, Lieutenants Rodgers and Gillespie, Ser- 
geant-Major J. Roy Hackenberg and JTirst Sergeant Calvin Cain. 

Shortly after the end of the fight the Forty-ninth was detailed to guard 
prisoners at Sheridan's headquarters. During the night Custer's cavalry 
brought in a large number in addition to those previously captured. About 
8 a. m. of the 7th, the regiment was ordered to conduct the prisoners to 
Burkeville Junction which w'as a full day's march from the battlefield. Ar- 
rived at Burkeville abcTut dark and turned the prisoners over to the provost 
marshal, drew rations and went into camp for the night. Early on the next 
morning (April 8) we started for the front, marched rapidly in the direction 
of Appomattox Court House, passing through Farmville and reached the 
front and joined the brigade on the morning of the 10th, after the surrender 
of Lee which had occurred the day before (April 9, 1865). 

We then returned with the army to Burkeville Junction and went into 
camp where we remained until the 25th. While in camp here, on April 16, 
Adjutant Downing was mustered as captain of Company F and Lieutenant- 
Robert Davidson of Company F as adjutant of the regiment. Here also 
we were joined by a company of volunteers from Allegheny county, com- 
pany K, commanded by Captain J. F. Reynolds, First Lieutenant James 
H. Bascom and Second Lieutenant Thomas M. Gillespie. 

On April 25, General Johnston not having yet surrendered to Sherman, 
the Sixth Corps marched to Danville in the very southern edge of Virginia, 
making the march in four days. Here we found many men from Lee's army 
awaiting transportation farther south. The old corps marched through the 
city with colors unfurled and the men never felt prouder nor marched better 

22 



326 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

than on this occasion. We went in camp south of the city on the edge of 
Nortli Carolina and remained until after Johnston's surrender. 

While here one recruit arrived and was assigned to Company F, which 
lacked one man of the mininmum, and as a result. First Sergeant Glass was 
mustered as second lieutenant of the company, which event occurred just in 
time, for the mail arrived while Glass was at the mustering officer's which 
brought news of the death of George Stanfo^l, wounded at Sailor's Creek, 
and two others discharged for disability. Had Glass been an hour later he 
would have failed in being mustered. 

On May 6, we returned by rail to Burkeville and the corps was distributed 
along the Southside railroad. The Forty-ninth headquarters were at Wells- 
ville with eight companies, while two companies under the command of Cap- 
tain Wombacker were stationed at Blacks and Whites Station, about eight 
miles farther south. While here the Army of the Potomac, with the excep- 
tion of the Sixth Corps, returned to Washington. Sherman's army from 
Atlanta also passed by us on their way to the National Capital. After the 
grand review of the two armies in Washington, the Sixth Corps, about June 
1, broke camp and marched to Petersburg and Manchester opposite Rich- 
mond, went into camp for two days, then marched through Richmond, re- 
viewed by General Halleck, on to Mechanicsville and Fredericksburg, and 
arrived at Hall's Hill opposite Washington, where we remained untU July 
15. In the meantime, however, the Sixth Corps also passed in review 
through Washington. On July 12, orders were received to make the mustei'- 
out rolls, preparatory to discharge. 

Everything being prepared. Captain A. M. Tyler, mustering officer, 
visited us and mustered the regimeiit out of the service on July 15, 1865, 
three years and ten months after organization. 

We proceeded through Washington and Baltimore to Harrisburg, where 
the officers and men were paid and finally discharged, and the Forty-ninth 
Regiment of Pennsylvania Volunteers had passed into history. 



DEDICATION OF iNIONUMENT 

53^ REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

September 1, 1889 
ADDRESS OF FIRST LIEUT. & ADJUTANT CHAS. P. HATCH 

COMRADES: — We meet to-day for a noble and glorious purpose, and one 
which cannot but appeal to the heart of every soldier here who was a 
member of our old command. At the same time it would be strange 
indeed, if the occasion did not engender within us emotions of a conflicting 
nature. 



*Organize(i at Harrisburg, November 7, ISSl, to serve three years. On the expiration 
of its term of service the original members (except veterans) were mustered out and 
the organization composed of veterans and recruits retained in service until June 30, 1865, 
when it was mustered out. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 327 

As I look around mo and see how few there are of us left, memories of the 
past come crowding before nu^. I recall to memory those daj'S in '63 wlien 
we were battling with the enemy upon this very field. I am carried still 
farther back to '61 when we started out upon our military career, and, com- 
paring that starting out with to-day, one cannot but be profoundly impressed 
not alone by the changed a!ul happy conditions now existing, but son-ow- 
fully as well, as we recall to memory our former comrades, now dead and 
gone, but then with us brave, eager and enthusiastic. 

The records of the AVar Department show that from '61 to '6.3 our regi- 
ment had already gone through ten principal engagements, not counting the 
numerous minor ones, and in each many were stricken from our ranks, and 
when, in 1863, we marched upon the field of Gettysburg, our ranks had al- 
ready been sadly depleted, but again our thin ranks were further reduced in 
numbers. From Gettysburg to Appomattox inclusive the Fifty-third took 
part in sixteen additional principal engagements, making twenty-six in all, 
averaging one principal engagement or battle, for each fifty days of service, 
including the time spent in winter quarters, and not counting the reconnais- 
sances, special services and incidental encounters vfith the enemy between 
battles, in all of which however we suffered constant losses in killed and 
woimded . 

Our regimental reports of casualties during the war foot up thirty-li\<' 
oflicers and seven hundred and two enlisted men, giving a total of seven 
hundred and thirty-seven. Of these, the record of killed in action or died of 
wounds received in action is four officers and one hundred and ninety-six en- 
listed men, a total of exactly two hundred killed. These facts and reminis- 
cences vividly recall the past and we would be indeed singularly constituted 
were our feelings not wrought upon by the restrospect. 

Still, with it all comes over us the proud consciousness of a soldier's faith- 
ful service, and associated with it a sentiment of pride and admiration in the 
gallantry and fortitude of our old comrades w'ho gloriously laid down their 
lives in the cause which we had all alike assumed, and when we remembu 
that our presence here to-day is at the bidding of our State, as being worthy 
of its honors for the service they and we perfoi-med, we experience feelings 
of profound gratitude and satisfaction, in that it is our privilege to see this 
memorial monument erected and dedicated in honor of those old comrades 
and of our gallant old regiment, for it was a gallant regiment, as its official 
record bears witness, and we are amply entitled to all our feelings of pride 
in having been members of it. That it served in line with the numerous 
other gallant commands from our own as well as other States, would alone 
be sufficient glory for the Fifty-third, even though it had no other claims for 
credit, but I believe the evidence will show that probably few regiments in 
our whole army saw more arduous or severe service during the war, a f-ict 
not realized by us at the time but now demonstrated in the statistical sum- 
ming up. It will however be out of place for me here and at this time to 
even attempt to trace the career of our old command during the war, or 
enter upon its active participation in the many engagements in which it bore 
a part and I but touch upon the general facts. 

As with many another, our regiment had its origin in that great uprising 
in 1861, a year we Avell remember who lived and moved in its excitements. 



328 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

but of which the younger and present generation can have no adequate con- 
ception . 

An economic and political question which had, at the time the Constitution 
of the country was first under discussion and being formulated, already been 
the cause of anxious thought and then adjusted by compromise, a question 
which later on was the cause of renewed discussions and new compromises, 
which had passed all the stages, from anxious debate to acrimonious contro- 
versy, finally reached its culmination in 1861, when, though I cannot say 
without warning or premonition, the blow fell which was the knell of war 
between the two sections of the country. There were those no doubt on the 
one side who had early determined to strike the blow, there were those in the 
North who saw its coming, yet the country at large could not believe in the 
possibility of such a calamity and was amazed as well as astounded when it 
come, but before that first shot upon Fort Sumter had ceased echoing over 
the land, the revulsion came in a mighty cry of denunciation for those 
who had done the deed, and men in countless numbers and from all sidefi 
of the loyal North demanded to be led to the defense of our country's ilaf;. 

So, and then, the Fifty-third Pennsylvania was born and organized, not 
for hope of personal reward, not for love, but through that exalted and 
vivifying patriotism which pervaded the hearts of the loyal North, asking 
only to be led to the front to meet the enemy. There was but one thought, 
that in the Providence of God there was one duty above every other pre- 
sented to us, and that was the defense of our flag, the maintenance I'f 
our government and glorious nationality in all its integrity, and for this 
the men of '61 freely volunteered their services and if need be, their lives 
As was natural under the tension of public feeling then existing, the 
people were in advance of the constituted authorities, coming together in- 
tuitively and by a common impulse, taking the initiative in organization 
and selecting their leaders under whom they desired to serve. 

We found ours in Captain John R. Brooke, who had already served as 
an officer in the preliminary three-months' service, and he became our 
colonel, iind as corroboration of the worthiness and fitness of the selec- 
tion, as well as testifying as to the quality of the command under bim, 
I have but to mention that after the close of the war he was coinmis- 
sioned in the regular military service of the United States and is to-day 
holding the rank of brigadier-general. 

Our lieutenant-colonel was Richards McMichael, of Pottsville, Pa., a 
veteran of the Mexican war, while our major was Thomas Teager, of 
Allentown, Pa., who lost his life at Fair Oaks. 

On the one side, therefore, were arrayed those who had taken up arms 
in defense and for the perpetuation of our National life. On the other 
were arrayed those who, though doubtless equally as sincere in their con- 
victions, yet sought the destruction of our National government, and the 
right to maintain a separate confederate government. 

The issue at stake was a momentous one and upon the outcome of those 
days of conflict upon which we were about to enter, depended conse- 
quences to our country and humanity which would shape the destiny of 
generations. 

Our grand government, which had already done so much to raise th*; 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 329 

dignity of mau aud labor, which had loug been the wonder and admiration 
of civilized people as they viewed the progress and prosperity already at- 
tained by a people living under constitutional guarantees of liberty and 
freedom, was now threatened with subversion. In the principles invohed 
it was a struggle between giants. It was in fact a war between men of 
kindred blood and antecedents. 

With the great issues before us, and with the spirit prevailing and which 
animated our regiment, therefore, how impatiently were passed those early 
days of necessary preparation in Camp Curtin, until that, to us, event- 
ful day, November 7, 1861, when, a completely organized and equipped 
regiment, the Fifty-third, was drawn up in line and presented with its 
colors by the Governor of our State, Andrew G. Curtin. 

That which we had asked had come to us, and the emblem which we 
were to defend had been placed in our charge. How that charge was 
fulfilled, our duty performed, is attested here aud by these ceremonies 
to-day, with our colors restored to the State unsullied and without stain, 
though they may be and are in fact ragged and torn by service and ex 
posure on the numerous fields of battle where they had been so gallantly 
borne by the Fifty-third, and the rest to-day in honored companionship 
in the capitol of the State. From the moment the Fifty-third received 
its colors they were never out of its possession tmtil the day they were 
again returned to the State at the close of the war and the regiment dis- 
banded. 

Following the presentation of our colors we received marching orders. 
and at 9 a. m., November 9, 1861, left Camp Curtin, being transported 
bj' rail from Harrisburg to Washington, by way of York and Baltimore, 
where we became a part of the Third Brigade, Sumner's Division, after- 
ward known as First Division, Second Army Corps. We remained con- 
nected with the Third Brigade until April 14, 1863, when a Fourth Brig- 
ade for our division was oi'ganized, to be commanded by Colonel Brooke, 
to which our regiment was naturally transferred. 

Originally enlisting for three years our regiment re-enlisted for the war, 
December 22, 1863, and thus became entitled to be known as the Fifty- 
third Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteers. It was present at Appomattox 
Court House at the surrender of General Lee and was mustered out of 
the service of the United States, June 30, 1865. 

Gettysburg will, I think, be hereafter, if it is not already, classed 
among the great battles of the world, a crucial period in the war, gov- 
erning the eventual outcome or fate of a cause. It is true, battles had 
been fought by us, successes achieved by our arms, but none had yet 
seemed to possess that potent and decisive influence which presaged de- 
feat or victory to the cause at large. At the period there were two great 
points of conflict, Vicksburg and Gettysburg. 

Upon the 3d day of July, Vicksburg asked terms of surrender, on the 
same day and almost the same hour the Army of the Potomac, under 
command of General Meade, dealt the Confederate army, commanded by 
General Lee, its final blow, one it never recovered from, for though it 
fought bravely and vigorously through the Wilderness Campaign of '64, 
after withdrawing behind the defenses of Richmond and Petersburg it was 



330 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

never again able to take the offensive in the field and only left those de- 
fenses in the spring of '65 to surrender in a few days to the illustrious 
commander of our armies. General Grant. 

The defeat of the main army of the Confederates at Gettysburg, prob- 
ably the strongest and best equipped they had at any time sent into 
the field, composed of veterans, and encouraged by their advantages at 
Fredei'icksburg and Chancellorsville, was irreparable. Their cause was 
thereafter hopeless. That its importance was read right at the time by 
those who had watched the drift of events and knew the art of war is 
without doubt. lu this connection I need but quote the words of our 
old corps commander, noble generous-hearted Hancock, spoken while on 
the field and but shortly prior to the final charge of the enemy under 
Pickett. It was while the artillerj' fire of the 3d was in full progress, and 
which you will remember had opened on both sides about 1 p. m. 

About 2.30 p. m.. Colonel Brooke with his staff, including myself, 
had ridden out to a small farm house some two hundred yards in front 
of our line of battle, a little to the left, observing the effect of our 
artillery upon the enemy's lines and watching their movements, when 
General Hancock, accompanied by some of his staff, also rode up. After 
some general conversation pertinent to the occasion, Hancock started to 
return to our lines again, as he did so, however, he drew himself up in 
the saddle in the manner which gave him the name of "Superb," and re- 
marked : 

"Gentlemen, after this artillery fire is over it will be followed by an in- 
fantry attack upon our lines. This battle is the turning point of the war; 
if we win this fight the war is practically over," and as giving a fur- 
ther portrayal of his admirable qualities, I cannot refrain from also 
quoting his closing remarks which were as follows: "We cannot tell 
where any of us may be before this day is over; before leaving you I wish 
to say I speak harshly .sometimes. If I have at any time ever said any- 
thing to offend or hurt the feelings of any one of you I wish now to oft"er 
an apology." 

Those wild had the good fortune to know General Hancock personally, 
can easily recall and fully appreciate his characteristic nobility, generosity, 
and magnaminity ; he was actuated by all these graceful attributes of the 
true soldier and as well gave evidence of his clear military sagacity when 
he thus .spoke, and then, as though his mind at ease and prepared and 
ready for any fate which might be in store for him, he rode oft", and, as 
is well-known, was, not much later on during the charge on our lines, 
badly wounded and borne from the field. 

We none of us of course understood him to imply that this was to be the 
last battle to be fought, but that its loss would be disastrous and vital 
to the enemy, that the end was thereafter a foregone conclusion in a mili- 
tary sense, and such was the case, for the enemy never recovered from 
the blow it received here. It is therefore because Gettysburg was the 
turning point, the great culminating battle of the war, that it has been 
accorded such prominence, that it has been thought well to mark this field 
with these imperishable memorials to stand hereafter to the glory and 
credit of those who participated in its dangers, and the monuments will 



Pennsylvania at Gettijshurg. 331 

certainly lose none of their sigiiilicaufc ; in truth it should be nil the 
greater, in being located and dedicated by those who themselves had 
taken part in the conflict, while to the student and historian of the fu- 
ture, their value must prove inestimable, for who will question the cor- 
rectn<>ss of the story of Gettysburg written in these imperishable char- 
acters by those who fought the fight. When, iu 1863, the enemy, heing 
then around Fredericksburg, started, northwest upon his Gettysburg cam- 
paign, our regiment was in camp near Falmouth, Va., opposite Fred- 
ericksburg, and at the time constituted a part of the Fourth Brigade, 
First Division, Second Army Corps, the other regiments being the One 
hundred and forty-fifth Pennsylvania, Second Delaware, Sixty-fourth 
New York and Twenty-seventh Connecticut. 

The brigade was under command of Colonel John K. Brooke, colonel of 
our regiment, while the regiment was under the command of Lieutenant- 
Colonel Richards McMichael, I, your adjutant, being on the staff of the 
brigade commander as acting assistant adjutant-general. At the period 
named our brigade received orders at 2 a. m., June 14, to be ready to 
march at 8 a. m., and at the latter hour we were under arms awaiting 
orders. It was at the time part of our duty to "picket" a portion of the 
front before Fredericksburg and we therefore had but about five hundred 
men for duty in the brigade. 

We remained under arms until 2 p. m., when, a section of artillery hav- 
ing been added to our force, we received orders to move in haste and 
occupy Banks' Ford on the Rappannock ; we marched at once and upon 
reaching our destination found the Fifty-second New York of the Third 
Brigade already arrived there and which for this duty was placed in our 
brigade. Our duty was to protect the ford, prevent its use by the enemy 
and observe their movements, their columns being then in movement up 
the south side of the river. We held the ford until 9 p. m. that night, 
when, leaving the Fifty-second New York at the ford, the brigade with- 
drew to Berea Church, about two and one-half miles from the ford where 
we took up position for attack and then went into bivouac. The next 
morning early the regiment at the ford was also withdrawn and at 5.30 a. 
m., the brigade took up the line of march for Stafford Court House, 
to reach which we had to retrace our route through the camps around 
Falmouth, all of which were now silent and deserted. 

That portion of our brigade which had been on picket duty before Fred- 
ericksburg was at the same time withdrawn, and rejoined us as we passed 
Falmouth. Our brigade was the last to leave the front of Fredericks- 
burg. Our march to Stafford Court House was a rapid one, as we 
reached there about 10 a. m., making the distance, about twelve miles, in 
about four and one-half hours; upon reaching Stafford we found our 
corps and division, which had halted, anxiously awaiting our withdrawal, 
when after a further halt of about two hours we with our corps re- 
sumed our march and that aftei-noou about 5 p. m. went into bivouac 
at Aquia creek. The day had been intensely warm, some thirty men of 
the corps being sunstruck on the march, while hundreds almost ex- 
hausted by the heat and unable to keep up with the colunin struggled in 
the rear as best they could, but most came in after dark, though many 
were captured by the enemy's cavalry. 



332 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

June 16, at 6 a. m., our corps again resumed its march, our brigade 
with a section of artUlery now acting as rear guard for the column. At 
11 a. m. we forded the Occoquan and passing beyond a short distance went 
into camp about 2p.m. This day like the preceding was exhausting and 
the heat oppresive, our men suffering severely. June 17, 7.30 a. m., we 
again struck camp, and moving via Dumfrie.s, went into camp at Sang- 
ster's Station about noon, where, acting under orders, all extra baggage 
and all men not able to endure the march were forwarded to Washington. 
We remained at Sangster's until 4 p. m. June 19, when, breaking camp, 
we moved to Centerville, which we reached at 7.30 p. m. At this point 
our brigade was ordered to occupy and hold Thoroughfare Gap, while our 
corps moved on, and for this purpose our brigade broke camp at noon 
June 20, reaching and occupying the Gap at 11 p. m. that night. We held 
the Gap until 9 a. m., June 25, the enemy making occasional demon- 
strations on our pickets, and at times forcing us to go into line of battle, 
but beyond some skirmishing, by which we lost one killed and five or 
six wounded, nothing of moment occurred, and at the hour mentioned we 
withdrew and marched to Gum Springs, being followed from the Gap by 
the enemy's cavalry, where we again came up with our corps. At 6 a. 
m., June 26, our whole column was again on the march and now directly 
for the Potomac river, which we crossed at Edwards' Ferry at midnight, 
going into bivouac about 2.30 a. m., June 27, on the north side, where 
we halted until 3 p. m., when we again resumed our march, going into 
camp near Barnesville, Md., about 11 p. m. June 28, 6 a. m., we 
started for and at 4 p. m. reached the Monocacy river, where we halted, 
. and our brigade went into camp on the same ground occupied similarly 
by us the year previous when on our march for Antietam. June 29, 6 
a . m . , we crossed the Monocacy by the stone bridge and marching via 
Frederick City and Union Bridge, went into camp near Uniontown, Md., 
about 9.30 p. m., making for the day an unusually long march of thirty- 
three inUes. Here we remained until the morning of July 1. On this 
day, which witnessed the opening of the three days' battle at Gettysburg, 
we broke camp at Uniontown at 6 a. m. and took up our line of march 
via Taneytown. After marching a few miles the familiar sound of artUlery 
firing was heard in the advance, which we then had learned ♦was at or 
near Gettysburg, toward which our columns were now rapidly converging. 
You no doubt all remember our crossing the boundary line into Pennsyl- 
vania and what ringing cheers went up from our regiment when we found 
ourselves, after so long an absence, once more treading the soil of our 
native State and that we were to do battle so near our homes. Footsore 
and jaded as all were, the step became more springy, the gait quickened 
as our forward movement went on, while the sound of artillery became 
momentarily more rapid as well as more distinct as we advanced. In fact 
the great fight had fairly begun, and we knew must be in full progress in 
the front, and as we recall the scene there is even now the old thriU and 
inspiration in the contemplation of our veteran column pushing on with 
all the determination and speed possible toward the field which we knew 
was the prelude to the desperate encounter we were ourselves to engage 
in with the enemy. 



Pennsylvania at Geiti/shurg. 333 

It was about 2.30 p. m., while our folumu was thus pushing forward, 
our brigade being in the lead and our regiment leading the brigade, Gen- 
eral Hancock with Colonel Brooke and their respective staffs were at the 
time riding at the head of the line, when a mounted orderly came rapidly 
down the road towards us and, approaching General Hancock, handed 
him the communication from General Meade apprising him of the death 
of General Reynolds and directing him to at once take command of the 
forces in the front and then engaged with the enemy. Delaying only to 
announce the purport of the order and to give Colonel Brooke some in- 
structions as to our further march, Hancock rode off rapidly in the di- 
rection of Gettysburg. In a short time after the ambulance bearing the 
body of the. lamented Reynolds passed us in the contrary direction. 

That night about 10 p. m. we went into bivouac about two miles from 
Gettysburg, the battle for the day having ceased, but by 7 a. m., July 2, 
we were assigned position on Cemetery Ri5ge, about one mile north of 
Little Round Top on the right of the Third Corps, the enemy being in 
our front across the valley about one mile. The weary hours we spent in 
this position I need hardly mention, being varied only by shifting our po 
sition here and there, but never far, and this continued from 7 a. m. until 
4 p. m., when all our weariness vanished as we unexpectedly and some- 
what to our surprise, saw the Third Corps under General Sickles advanc- 
ing from our left and moving across the valley to the paach orchard and 
the Emmitsburg road. At first uncertain what it meant we soon saw 
them penetrate the peach orchard, and realized by the rattle of musketry 
which followed that the second day's fight had opened. Entertaining no 
doubt but that we would shortly be ordered forward to join in it, we 
were intently watching the fighting going on before us, when we' were, 
about 5 p. m., suddenly called to attention and our brigade was ordered 
to the left, at double-quick, our movement being left in front. We were 
soon in line of battle at the edge of the wheatfield, where by the time 
of our arrival the First Brigade of our division, under command of Colonel 
Ci'oss of the Fifth New Hampshire, had already become hotly engaged and 
were being pressed by the enemy. Halting only to. rectify our ranks, 
our brigade was ordered to advance to the relief of the First Brigade, 
and we at once moved forward faced by the rear rank, having no time to 
form by the front, and passing the line of the First Brigade at tli« edge 
of the field, struck the enemy and we also found ourselves hotly engaged. 
Our brigade however pressed forward steadily, firing as it advanced, op- 
posed by both infantry and artillery, the latter being posted on the high 
ground beyond, but we nevertheless soon drove the enemy's front line 
by our firm advance, but the enemy's artillery fire was now felt by 
Colonel Brooke to be telling too severely upon us at this time and he there- 
fore ordered a charge by the brigade, which gallantly responded, and, 
dashing forward, broke the enemy's second line and mounting the high 
ground beyond the run, drove the enemy's artillery from its position, and 
it was in this charge and at this time the Fifty-third Pennsylvania reached 
the identical spot now marked by this monument, the Sixty-fourth New 
York being on our left, two companies of the Twenty-seventh Connecticut 
on our right, with the One hundred and forty-fifth Pennsylvania on the 



334 Pennsylvania at Getty shurg. 

right of the line and their respective monuments stand with our own on 
this glorious and advanced line. 

A part of the Third Brigade of our division (our original brigade) was not 
far off, and hoping to maintain our position, Colonel Brooke, in the 
emergency, at once assumed command over them, ordering them to our 
aid, to hold what we had gained, but we were too far in advance of our 
lines, and the enemy -still being in strong force in our front and moving 
upon both our right and left flanks, seeing no troops coming to our as- 
sistance. Colonel Brooke w^as obliged to order our line to fall back, which 
it did slowly and in good order, firing as it retired. In fact we retired 
none too soon, as our brigade was almost enveloped by the enemy before 
it had reached and repassed the wheatfield, where we reformed behind 
some stone walls in line with our other troops, prepared to continue the 
fight, but at this time fresh troops came up and relieved our brigade, when 
we withdrew to a point nearer Little Round Top to reform, it being 
then about 7 p. m. and the fight for the day practically over. 

After reforming, we moved to a position near that occupied by us before 
the battle where we rested under arms until early the next morning, July 
3, when we again moved with our position in the front line on Cemetery 
Ridge, the enemy having our movement in plain view, shelling us severely; 
we lost several of our brigade in killed and wounded. Here we dug rifle 
pits and then awaited further events. That the fight would reopen we 
knew was inevitable, and there was apparent evidence that both armies 
were preparing for its renewal, but beyond some desultory firing here and 
there, there was comparative quiet until about 1 p. m., when the silence 
was broken by the crash of artillery firing which opened on each side 
with a terrific roar. This was kept up without appreciable diminution 
on either side until about 2.30 p. m., when our own guns gradually slack- 
ened their fire, though that of the enemy continued in full volume until 
about 4 p. m., when it also diminished in volume and we saw their in- 
fantry deploying by their left, a little to the right of our own front, and 
we realized another struggle was at hand. As they came from the cover 
of the trees and secured proper frontage, their lines moved slowly for- 
ward, and then we saw line after line developed until the charging column 
under Pickett was formed and moving rapidly upon our lines. Then it 
was our guns awoke to new life, as it were, and reopened vigorously 
from all sides upon the devoted column, but, as you know, great as was 
the havoc wrought in its ranks by our guns, its forward movement only 
ceased when it struck our Second Division immediately on the right of 
own own. I need speak no further of it than to say it was a gallant and 
magnificent charge, as gallantly and as magnificently met and repulsed. 

Upon this occasion, however, neither our regiment or brigade were di- 
rectly engaged, but as showing the close proximity of the fighting, I would 
mention that the skirmish line of the charging column extended across a 
portion of our own front and right, and likewise reached our lines, but 
coming on without firing a shot, and our men, seeing no troops following 
them, immediately refrained from firing upon them; on the contrary, as 
their skirmishers reached our lines they were permitted to enter unmo- 
lested, and our men after sharing the contents of their haversacks with 



Pennsylvania at Gcttysharg. 335 

them, sent them to the ri'iir ;i.s i)i-isoners, even while the fight was in des- 
perate progress so near \\\Hni our riglit. Defeated and shattered, the frag- 
ments of Pickett's columns withdrew and the third day's fight was ended. 

The next day, July 4, broke upon us bright and clear, and found all 
ready for a resumption of the cnntest if it was to come, but we early 
learned that the enemy was already in full retreat, although there was 
still considerable picket firing in progress, muttering of the storm of 
battle at it were, which had just passed. At last our men could take the 
rest thej' so sorely needed, after their long march from the Rappannock 
and the wearing fatigue and desperate fighting of the past three days, and 
we w^ent into bivouac in position where we were; but not for long, for 
at 4 p. m., July 5, we took up our line of march from Cemetery Ridge 
for Two Taverns, where we again went into bivouac and remained until 
5 a. m., July 7, when we marched for Taueytown, Maryland, whidi 
we reached at 11 p. m., July S, 5 a. m., Wv<^ left Taneytown ; our march 
for the day bringing us to a point about four miles from Frederick City. 
July 9, 5 a. m., we were again in motion and marching through Frederick 
City reached Burkittsville at 5.30 p. m. Halting but one hour, w'e resumed 
our march and passing through Crampton's Gap went into bivouac about 
9.30 p. m. at Rohrersville, Maryland. 

July 10, 5 a. m., our column was again on the march, moving )/(( 
Keedysville, and passing over the old Antietam battlefield about 1.30 p. 
m. : Aye went into bivouac at a point about six miles from Williamsport. 
July 11, 6 a. m., we nmrched for Jones' Cross Roads, where we went 
into line of battle, expecting an attack by the enemy but none followed. 
July 12, 2 p. m. we moved forward about three-fourths of a mile from the 
enemy, where we again halted and threw up entrenchments, remaining in 
this position until 5 a. m., July 14, when our corps went into line of battle 
and moved upon the enemy's position, our line of battle being preceded by 
a skirmish line under command of Colonel Brooke, composed of the Fifty- 
third Pennsylvania, Second Delaware, Sixty-fourth New York of our own 
brigade, to which, for this special duty, was added the Fifty-seventh New 
York of our old Third Brigade and the Fifth New Hampshire of the 
First Brigade of our division. 

With our skirmish line deployed at one pace interval, we moved upon 
the enemy's position, but they had generally recrossed the Potomac and 
we fell in only with a strong rear guard near Falling Waters witli which, 
however, we had a sharp encounter before they could cross the river, in 
which several hundred of them were captured by us, after which we went 
into bivouac until 5 a. m., July 1.5, wlien, there being none of the enemy 
north of the Potomac, we took up our line of march with our corps for 
Harper's Ferry, marching i'u/ Downsville and Sharpsburg and at 6 p. m. 
went into bivouac along the tow-path of the canal, having marched all 
day, without food. The next day we moved to Pleasant Valley, where 
our corps remained until 6 a. m., July 18, when we took \\\i our march 
again for Harper's Ferry, at which point we forded the Potomac and 
again found ourselves in Virginia moving southward on the east side of 
the Blue Ridge, while the enemy was moving on i)arall('l lines on the west 
side of the ridge. 



336 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

It seems a singular coincidenco, yet such are the facts, that our corps, 
then commanded by General Sumner, was the advance of the Army of the 
Potomac in its movement on Fredericksburg in '62, while our regiment 
was one of the brigade which led the corps, and was the first to enter ■ 
Falmouth and appear before Fredericksburg. Again, when the Army of 
the Potomac abandoned the front of Fredericksburg, our corps was the 
last to withdraw, while our regiment was one of the brigade which was 
rear guard for the corps, and consequently the last to leave the front of 
Fredericksburg. And again, as our army turns its steps southward, fol- 
lowing the enemy's retreating columns, our own regiment, together with 
a majority of our brigade, is in the skirmish line of the last line of battle 
which moved upon the enemy north of the Potomac, and our regiment 
took part in the last action had with the enemy's rear guard and firrd 
the last shots as closing the Gettysburg campaign. 

Drawn from memory and aided by memoranda made by me at the time I 
have given you as briefly as possible, assuming it would be of interest, 
our movements from the day we started from Falmouth, June 14, to meet 
the enemy at Gettysburg until the battle over, we had our final combat 
with them just one month after, on July 14, and the Gettysburg cam- 
paign was past, fraught with all its influences upon the subsequent opera- 
tions of the enemy. In common with the other commands which had seen 
equal service, our regiment wont into action at Gettysburg much re- 
duced in numbers. 

Three companies numbering about one hundred, and under command 
of Captain Mintzer, were, during the battle, on duty at corps head- 
quarters as provost guard, and were engaged in guarding prisoners taken 
in the fight, subsequently about three thousand of them being marched 
to Westminster, Maryland, assisted by some cavalry, all under command 
of Captain Mintzer. The other seven companies remained with the brig- 
ade, and taking active part in the battle numbering exactly one hundred 
and thirty-five officers and men, and were under the command of Lieu- 
tenant-Colonel McMichael ; a pitiful remnant of the gallant regiment 
which had left Camp Curtin nine hundred and twenty strong, less than 
two years before, but the difference in numbers is easily understood when 
we refer to the previously mentioned regimental reports of casualties in 
action, to which might well be added the numbers, and they were not 
a few, who died of sickness contracted in the service, and the large num- 
bers in hospital, wounded or sick. Truly, our regimental report for the 
day was "All present or accounted for." Of the one hundred and thirty- 
five who entered the fight on the 2d of July in line with the brigade, the 
losses were as follows: 

Killed. Wounded. Captured or Missing . Total. 

Officers, — 11 — 11 

Enlisted men, ... 7 56 6 69 

Totals, 7 67 ■ 6 . 80 

Of the total number engaged: 

Our aggregate losses of all kinds equalled, ■ 59 2-10 per cent. 

Our losses in killed and wounded, 49 6-10 " " 

Our losses in killed alone, 5 2-10 " " 

Our losses in captured and missing, 4 4-10 



» 
Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 337 

Out of the one hundred and thirty-five who went into the fight but fifty- 
five were left in line of battle under our regimental colors the next morn- 
ing, but few as they were they were there in line of battle with their brig- 
ade and ready on the 3d, to sustain the previous well-earned reputation 
of the gallant Fifty-third; our regiment needs no eulogy at our hands, 
for what it achieved is written in history. That it did its duty nobly and 
unflinchingly we very well know, but still some statistical facts in this 
connection may not prove uninteresting. 

Colonel William F. Fox, in his work, upon losses sustained in battle, 
enumerates forty-five regiments which, of all regiments serving in the 
armies of the United States during the war, suffered a loss each of two 
hundred or more in killed in action or died of wounds received in action. 
The Fifty-third Pennsylvania is one of the forty-five. Out of the forty- 
five regiments enumerated, three were members during the war of our 
own Fourth Brigade, viz: The One hundred and forty-eighth Pennsyl- 
vania, One hundred and forty-fifth Pennsylvania and Fifty-third Pennsyl- 
vania, the first mentioned under command as colonel of the present Gov- 
ernor of our State, General James A. Beaver, whose regiment became at- 
tached to our brigade with the opening of the Wilderness campaign, while 
he himself had command of our brigade after the wounding of Colonel 
Brooke at Cold Harbor, and until he also was wounded at our head. Of 
the forty-five regiments mentioned, twelve of them belonged to our own 
corps, the Second, or more than twenty-six per cent. 

Again, Colonel Fox enumerates nine heavy artillery regiments which 
similarly suffered a loss each of two hundred or more in killed in action 
or died of wounds received in action. Of these one regiment, the Seventh 
New York, was a member of our brigade, having been added to it during 
the Wilderness campaign of '64 a few days after it had seen its first en- 
gagement ; while five out of the nine regiments, or more than fifty-five 
per cent., belonging to oUr corps. 

By the same authority, the infantry regiment which suffered the largest 
loss in killed of any infantry regiment in all our armies was the Fifth 
New Hampshire, of the First Brigade of our division, our near neighbor 
in many a fight and to whose relief we went in the fight on the 2d of 
July. 

From the statistics, therefore, the Fourth Brigade, First Division, 
Second Army Corps seems to have had a "somewhat remarkable service in 
its severity, not that I would arrogate for it or for our regiment, which 
was a member of it, a soldierly rank higher, or claim for it a spirit more 
gallant than pertained to other commands, but simply that the exigencies 
of the service seems to have thrown it into the forefront, that it seems 
to have been its fortune to find its place as a rule in the thick of the fight, 
and these statistics, showing as they do, stamp our old Fourth Brigade 
and with it the Fifty-third Pennsylvania as commands possessing remark- 
able soldierly bravery and fortitude. 

If this is regarded as regimental egotism, I simply invite those who so 
regard it to read and analyze the figures. Though I love my old regi- 
ment and old brigade, yet mine are not the partial words of praise of one 
who was a member of them, nor words of exaggeration. They are de- 



o38 Pennsylvania af (tctli/shiii (/. 

ductions logically drawn from tho cold remorseless figures after a lapse of 
more than twenty-five years. I give them because the facts show the com- 
pany we were in, and nothing could more forcibly illustrate the truth 
that our regiment was emphatically in the front when we see that it 
served shoulder to shoulder in the same brigade, division and corps with 
commands so illustriously distinguished, and looking over all this, we na- 
turally experience a warm glow of soldierly pride in our regiment which 
bore its due sliare of the burden of battle and served with such noble and 
gallant troops as we undoubtedly had in our old Second Corps, and as 
leaving out this feeling, I believe to-day, that next to our flag, we love 
our old corps badge, the red trefoil. 

I remember a visit I once paid t<> our first brigade commander, T.riga- 
dier-General William H. French, after he had been promoted, and was 
at the time in command of a division in another part of the Army of tlie 
Potomac. 

As I was about to leave, he drew from his pocket-book a simple red 
trefoil, one cut from red flannel and as issued at the time by the govern- 
ment, with the remark, "When I feel homesick and downhearted I take 
this out and look at it, and it cheers me up." We old soldiers understand 
that feeling and probably have the same for it now. 

By the country at lai'ge of course, the Fifty-thii-d Pennsylvania Veteran 
Volunteers may be regarded simply as one of the numerous regiments 
which were organized and sent to the front during the war by the State 
of Pennsylvania, served the purpose of its creation and was then dis- 
banded. To us however it has more stirring as well as more tender 
memories, and is still a living reality, binding us together in the warm 
affection of comradeship and will be while life itself is left to any of us. 

It is this feeling of affection for our old regiment which gives us our 
deep appreciation for this memorial, for next to the soldier's personal 
consciousness that he and his comrades fulfilled their duty on the field is 
its public acknowledgment, and this crowning gratification of the soldier 
is given us in this monument, and when we once again leave the field of 
Gettysburg we may do so with the feeling that our work here is indeed 
completed, but with the added assurance that the Fifty-third Pennsyl- 
vania, vigilant in its country's cause, will hereafter, even when we may 
all be sleeping the long sleep, still maintain on permanent post a senti- 
nel to represent the Fifty-third Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteers, and 
by his silent presence keep alive the same self-sacrificing patriotism it 
displayed. 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 339 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

56™ REGIA'TENT INFANTRY* 

September 11, 1889 
ADDRESS OF BREVET BRIG. -GEN. J. WILLIAM HOFMANN 



S 



URYIYING comrades of the P'ifty-sixth Regiment Pennsylvania Vet- 
eran Volunteers — I greet you: — We are assembled to-day to dedicate 
the memorial erected by the liberality of our great Commonwealth in 
appreciation of your services upon this field. The memorial marks the 
ground whereon you stood, twenty -five years ago, as the representative 
of her infantry regiments, at the opening of the great battle which here 
took place, one of the long series of battles fought during the great 
struggle for the preservation and perpetuation of the Union, and its 
beneficent government, under which its people had made such rapid and 
unprecedented progress in all that tends to the elevation and happiness of 
man . In fact a struggle the most momentous and far-reaching in its char- 
acter and in its results, of any that ever devolved upon man to deter- 
mine. A struggle during which the patriotism and devotion of the people 
of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to the cause of liberty and human 
freedom, was voiced in her contributions of treasure, and the lives and 
services of her sons. 

Owing to her geographical position at the time of the adoption of the 
Constitution of the United States — having six states upon her right, and 
six upon her left, Pennsylvania was accorded the honorary title of the 
"Keystone State" of the federal arch. And, although no longer, geo- 
graphically, the center of the arch, which for many years has spanned 
the Continnent from ocean to ocean, yet when the grand arch was tremb- 
ling under the measured tramp of a mighty host organized and marshaled 
for its destruction, then the grand old Commonwealth proved worthy of 
the mission implied by her title. 

The memorial marks the ground whereon you stood on the morning of 
July 1, 1863, ere the sun had reached the meridian. It stands within 
forty miles of the capital of our State, to which point you came from its 
most distant parts in response to the call of the President of the United 
States for volunteers, for three-years' service in the field, in defense of 
our country's flag. There, in Camp Curtin — so named in honor of the 
patriotic, zealous and efficient War Governor — you were organized into 
a regiment, and instructed in the duties of the soldier. Thus the regiment 
was pre-eminently a State organization, and as a unit, was without any 
local ties, a fitting circumstance to precede its distinguished services upon 
this memorable field. And no less was it pre-eminently a volunteer or- 
ganization . 



♦Organized at Harrisbiirg, March 7, 1S6?, to serve three years. On the expiration of its 
term of service the original members (except veterans) were mustered out and the 
organization composed of veterans and recruits retained in service until July 1, 1865, 
wlicn it was mustered out. 



340 Pennsylvania at Oettyshurg. 

Ou the morning of March 8, 1862, the regiment, under command of 
Colonel S. A. Meredith, moved from Camp Curtin with nearly eight huu- 
di'ed officers and men destined for the Army of the Potomac, then at 
Washington. Sixteen months of active field service and the sun of that 
July morning shone down upon the regiment as it came upon this field 
with its effective force reduced to seventeen officers, two hundred and 
thirty-five men; and true it is also, that the regiment was back within 
the borders of our State, and within so short a distance from the camp 
of rendezvous, and that the great struggle in which it had been engaged 
was still undecided. If we follow the track of the regiment's march, we 
shall find, however, that it had already marched a great distance, that 
it had already crossed many fields of battle, had moved over roads 
covered with stifling dust, or bottomless mud, through exhausting heat, 
through biting cold, through rain and hail and snow, had forded rapid 
streams and crossed rugged mountains. The exposure incidental to these 
marches had brought many a stout-hearted comrade to the hospital cot, 
to rise only after months of agonizing pain, and perhaps with health ir-' 
reparably shattered, or there to end his days upon earth. Add to these 
cases, the long list of comrades killed and wounded in the battles, and the 
absent at that morning's roll-call are accounted for: 

jMoving by rail, that factor so essential to success in modern warfare, 
the regiment arrived at Washington on the morning of March 9, and en- 
camped on Kalorama Heights. Then moved to Fort Albany, west of the 
Potomac river. April 4, it moved by boat to the "Lower Potomac" to 
guard government stores left there by Hooker's Division, which had gone 
to the Peninsula. On the 21th, the regiment was carried to Aquia Land- 
ing, then the northern terminus of the Richmond and Washington rail- 
road. There the regiment was engaged for some time in repairing the 
wharf, rebuilding the railroad, cutting wood and other uncongenial duties; 
uncongenial, because at the time deemed to be unsoldiery duties. Long 
before the war had been brought to a close, it was learned that destroy- 
ing and rebuilding railroads, and the general use of the pick, and the 
spade, and the axe, formed in fact a legitimate part of a soldier's duty. 
May 7, found the regiment at the Rappahannock river, engaged in guard- 
ing the railroad back to the Potomac creek bridge. It was now assigned 
to the brigade commanded by General A. Doubleday, and known as the 
Second Brigade, First Division (King's), First Corps (McDowell's). On 
the afternoon' of August 9, the regiment- joined the brigade column, 
crossed the Rappahannock at Fredericksburg, and entered upon the march 
that led to Cedar Mountain, thence to the battlefields of Rappahannock 
Station, to Sulphur Spring, then to Gainesville, where Captain Corman 
gave his life to his country, and where Colonel Meredith was severely 
wounded, and for his gallantry here was promoted to brigadier-general. — 
Then to Groveton, and to Manassas, each of these in turn claiming a 
sanguinary tribute from the regiment. Then recrossing the Potomac 
river at Washington, the march led through Frederick City and Middle- 
tewn t(j= the foot of the eastern slope of the South Mountain, about a mile 
north of Turner's Gap, the crest of the mountain at the time glittering 
with the arms of the enemy. A gallant ascent of the steep slope, in line 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 341 

of battle, a four hours' light, and the victory was won. Uutler cover of 
the night the enemy retreated. Early in the battle. General Hatch, com- 
manding the division, was wounded, and was succeeded by General 
Doubleday ; the command of the brigade then devolved upon your lieu- 
tenant-colonel, and remained in my hands until the early part of Novem- 
ber; the command of the regiment devolved upon Captain F. Williams. 
This, as an index of the severity of our losses in a campaign then extend- 
ing not over five weeks, for, on leaving Fredericksburg my name stood 
only number seven in the order of seniority upon' the brigade roster. I 
pause a moment in th(! narration to pay a well-earned tribute to two 
officers whom it became necessary now to detach from their company 
for duty upon my improvised staff. Lieutenant (now Colonel) Laycock 
and his friend Lieutenant Samuel Healy. Although new to the duties 
that now devolved upon them, the energy, zeal and efficiency with which 
these were performed, confirmed my admiration for them, awakening in 
•the night battles at Gainesville and at Groveton, and which was never 
lessened thereafter, whether, in many changes which followed, they served 
in the line or on the staff. Next morning, September 15, the road was 
again open for the march that now led to the field, memorable in the 
annals of warfare, as the battle of Antietam. A battle of charges and 
counter-charges, but a victory so friritful in its results. The enemy was 
driven back into Virginia, Maryland was saved to the Union. The in- 
tense anxiety of the people of the North for the safety of the National 
Capital was relieved. President Lincoln utilized the victory as a fulcrum 
for his pen, and sent forth the edict, one of the mightiest, most just, 
most humane of any issued by a ruler during historic times — the edict 
that expunged for all times the word slave from our statute book. Thence- 
forth all who stood beneath our country'* flag stood there as freemen. 
Such were the results that were wrought by the victory achieved by the 
valor of the Army of the Potomac upon the field of Antietam. 

October 30 found the regiment again crossing the Potomac river into 
Virginia, now by a pontoon bridge laid at Berlin. The Army of Nor- 
thern Virginia, under General Lee, was retreating southward in the valley 
of the Shenandoah. The Army of the Potomac, under General McClel- 
lari, was pursuing in the Loudoun valley. The First Corps, under General 
Reynolds, with our division, under General Doubleday, leading, was in the 
advance; our cavalry, under General Pleasonton, was in front, en- 
gaged in driving the enemy's cavalry, under General Stuart, into the gaps 
of the mountain that forms the wall dividing the two valleys. When in 
front of Philomont, General Pleasonton requested an infantry support. 
Our brigade was honored by being detailed for this special duty, and on 
the morning of November 2, it reported to him while in front of the town 
of Union, and at the time sharply engaged with the enemy. In conformity 
with his directions, the brigade was formed in line of battle, and then 
advanced steadily from point to point throughout the day, and steadily 
the enemy was driven back. The next day the brigade held the ground 
that had been gained and the cavalry aided by the First New Hampshire 
Battery, then forming part of the brigade, drove the enemy through Up- 
perville into Ashby's Gap. General Pleasonton, in his note from Upper- 
ville, on the evening of November 3, informing v^eneral Doubleday that he 

23 



342 Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 

will not need the services of the brigade any further, pays a well-earned 
tribute to your gallantry on the preceding day. Gratifying to the soldier, 
as is the commendation of his commanding officer, no less so is that ex- 
torted from his enemy. Since the close of the war, a number of those 
who were against you in battle on that day, have placed themselves upon 
record, freely according your gallantry and success in your several attacks 
upon them . 

Rejoining the division at Rectortown on the evening of the 5th, the 
march led to Warren ton, where General McClellan was relieved, and 
General Burnside was placed in command of the army. Then the march 
led back to Aquia Landing. Then to the battleiield of Fredericksburg; 
and after the sanguinary repulse the army met with on the right — to the 
winter's camp, near Belle Plain on the Potomac river, where it rested 
till the close of April. During the battle of Fredericksburg the division, 
under General Doubleday, was in line along the Bowling Green road, on 
the left of the array, ready to advance. When the army withdrew on the 
night of the 15th December, although you were not the extreme left, you 
had gained the confidence of General Reynolds so fully, that, by his direct 
order, you were detailed to cover the withdrawing of the troops from that 
part of the field, and were the last regiment to leave it. 

The only incident of special note during the camp life that now followed 
being that known, and vividly remembered by those who participated, as 
the "mud march," and another change in commanding officers ; General 
Hooker asumming command of the army, Gonei-al Wadsworth that of the 
division and General Cutler that of the brigade. Then followed the 
second Fredericksburg. Then Chancellorsville, with humiliating and de. 
pressing results. Then the regiment rested again in a camp for a few 
weeks, now near the Fitzhugh House on the left bank of the Rappan- 
nock, a few miles below Fredericksburg. 

Late on the afternoon of June 7, the regiment entered upon the Gettys- 
burg campaign; again honored by special detail. Some days previous 
our cavalry had gone on a reconnaissance in force in the direction of 
Culpeper. An infantry force was now sent to its support. The Sixth and 
the Eleventh Corps each furnished a brigade. The First Corps furnishing 
a provisional brigade, consisting of the Fifty-sixth Pennsylvania and the 
Seventh Regiment and two companies of the Second Regiment, Wisconsin 
Volunteers. The whole of the infantry assembled, about midnight, at 
Hartwood Church, under command of General Russell of the Sixth Corps. 
On the morning of the 8th the detail from the First Corps moved to 
Kelly's Ford on the Rappahannock river, and on the morning of the 9th, 
when the cavalry under General Gregg had crossed, forded the river and 
moved to near Brandy Station. At noon the Fifty-sixth was detached, and 
moved to Beverly Ford, where it covered the recrossing of a part of our' 
cavalry, the regiment recrossing at dark, and being the last of our troops 
to recross at that point. On the 13th the regiment rejoined the brigade 
at Bealton, the whole division having arrived there. Then the march led 
to Centerville, then to near Leesburg. 

The army under General Lee having again crossed the Potomac, was 
now moving on Harrisburg, via the Cumberland Valley. 



Pennsylvania at Getty sljurg. 343 

The Army of the Putomac pursued ; the First Corps crossed the river, 
over a poutoou bridge laid at the mouth of Goose creek, on the 25th, then 
moved via Jel'ferson, the Catoctiu Mountain and Middletown, to Fredericl< 
City. General Hooker having asked to be relieved from the command of 
the army, General Meade, then commanding the Fifth Corps, was as- 
signed to the command and entered upon his new duties by issuing the fol- 
lowing modestly-worded, soldierly and effective order: 

'•By direction of the President of the United States I hereby atsunie command of the 
Army of the Potomae. As a soldier, in obeying this order, an order totally unexpected 
and unsolicited, I have no promises or pledges to make. The country looks to this army 
to relieve it from the devastation and disgrace of a hostile invasion. Whatever fatigue 
and sacrifices we may be called on to undergo, let us have in view constantly the mag- 
nitude of the interest involved, and let each man determine to do his duty, leaving to 
an all-controlling Providence the decision of the contest. It is with just diffidence that 
1 relieve in the command of this army an eminent and accomplished soldier, whose 
name must ever appear cousiiicuous In the history of its achievements, but I rely upon 
the hearty support of my companions in arms to assist me in the discharge of the 
duties of the important trust that has been confided to me. 

George CJ. Meade, 
Major-General Commanding." 

On the 29th our brigade was detailed for duty as the rear-guard of the 
corps. The regiment — which had been on picket duty during the night 
under Lieutenant-Colonel Osborn, as gallant an officer as ever drew 
sword, and as efficient as he was gallant — came in about 5 a. m., and was 
soon formed in column ready for the march. But a long wagon train was 
passing, and there was a tedious delay; it was after 9 a. m. when the 
column was put in motion, and then kept in rapid motion, with but two 
short rests, until after midnight, when it went into bivouac near the 
southern end of Emmitsburg. At a very early hour on the 30th, it was in 
line of battle in front of the town, and at noon went into bivouac on the 
south bank of Marsh creek, near where it crossed by the bridge on the 
Emraitsburg-Gettysburg pike. During the afternoon there was the usual 
bi-monthly muster for pay, then a formation in line of battle to resist an 
apprehended attack by the enemy, then came tatoo with its roll call. 
How many brave comrades answered that roll call "Here" for the last 
time! Then came "taps," and the regiment slept, slept all the more 
soundly because of the brief, eai-ly broken rest of the previous night; and 
all unconscious of the momentous events that the morrow had in store 
for it. 

On the morning of July 1, the brigade moved out at about 8 o'clock, 
crossed the creek by the bridge on the pike, and moved on Gettysburg, 
distant about four miles. The Seventy-sixth New York led the brigade, 
the Fifty-sixth Pennsylvania followed, and was itself followed by the One 
hundred and forty-seventh New York, Ninety-fifth New York and the 
Fourteenth Brooklyn. The Seventh Indiana was detailed for special duty. 
In rear of the brigade followed Hall's battery. In front of the brigade 
rode General Cutler and staff, in front of him. General Wadsworth and 
staff, in the advance rode General Reynolds and staff. At the farm, now 
known historically as the Codori Farm, the column left the pike, inclined 
to the left and crossed the Seminary Ridge near the seminary building, 
descended into the swale in front of it; then the Seventy-sixth, Fifty-sixth 
and One hundred and forty-seventh were moved north across the Gettys- 



;}44 Feniitiijlvanki at Getti/sburg. 

burg-Chambersburg pike, and beyond the railroad grading, and were then 
formed in line of battle near the gentle elevation upon which you now 
stand. The regiment was then moved forward a short distance. As the 
horizon opened, a line of battle was seen approaching to the right and 
front. General Cutler being in your immediate rear, having decided that 
the line was a line of the enemy, you received the command to aim to the 
"right oblique," and then the command to "fire," when you delivered the 
opening fire of the infantry, in the great and decisive battle of Gettysburg. 
Thus the honor of having delivered the opening fire of the infantry, be- 
longs to no individual officer or man, but to the Fifty-sixth Pennsylvania 
Volunteers as a unit. And it is doing you but simple justice to state, as 
an indication of the coolness and steadiness of the officers and men under 
the exciting circumstances, that a more solid volley, "by battalion," has 
seldom been heard. General Cutler, a few months afterwards deemed the 
event so well worthy of note, that he wrote to Governor Curtin, setting 
forth the fact that it was the Fifty-sixth Pennsylvania Volunteers that 
opened the battle, and requested him to have it so recorded in the ar- 
chives of the Commonwealth as an act of justice to the regiment. And so 
it has been done, and so it now appears to your honor, in the enduring 
bronze memorial now before you. The event cannot be relegated to the 
chapter of accidents. You were not the leading regiment that morning; 
the result was owing in fact to long persistent efforts, to cheerful com- 
pliance with all orders, many involving great sacrifice to personal com- 
forts. Comrades, this it was, constant cheerful obedience to all orders, 
that enabled you to give prompt response to commands when the instant 
for action arrived ; and it has therefore, been deemed proper that the event 
should be, as stated, so recorded in the enduring bronze, together with 
the long list of battles, before and since the battle of Gettysburg, in which 
the regiment bore an honorable part. There is also I'ecorded in the 
bronze the fact that the regiment re-enlisted and became a veteran regi- 
ment serving until the close of the war. 

The severe losses sustained on this ground by the three regiments, 
caused General Wadsworth to order them to retire for a time. General 
Cutler then moved the Fifty-sixth and the Seventy-sixth to the railroad 
embankment east of the Seminary Ridge ; but when they were rejoined 
there by the One hundred and forty-seventh, which had not received the 
order at once, by reason of Colonel Miller being wounded, and had held 
on to its ground heroically, as the other two regiments had done until the 
order was received — the three regiments were at once moved forward and 
again occupied their original ground. In the meantime, the Fourteenth 
Brooklyn and the Ninety-fifth New York, which had been detached after 
having crossed the Seminary Ridge, and sent westward, under Colonel 
Fowler, to support Hall's battery which went into position near the Mc- 
Pherson barn — being joined by the Sixth Wisconsin under Lieutenant- 
Colonel Dawes, of the First Brigade, that had now arrived upon the field — 
had captured a large number of the enemy who had taken, shelter in the 
railroad cut upon their approach. The First Brigade, upon its arrival, 
charged into the woods south of the pike, and met with a brilliant success, 
capturing a general oflicer and a large part of his brigade. It is deserving 



Pennsylvania at GeUyshurg. 345 

of note to state that in this fust onset with the enemj', Wadswurth's Di- 
vision, which consisted of only the two brigades, and also the division of 
Heth's, with which it was then engaged, both lost a greater percentage, in 
killed and wounded than was sustained by the column of the enemy that 
made the charge on the afternoon of the third day of the battle, and which 
has commanded so much attention as a grand exhibition of valor. Early 
in this onset an irreparable loss had befallen us, the army and the coun- 
try ! General Reynolds, then commanding the First, the Third and the 
Eleventh Corps, constituting the left wing of the army, had fallen. 
Among those of the regiment who had fallen, was Lieutenant Gordon, who 
had earned his commission by brave and faithful .service in the ranks, 
(^neral Doubleday, our former brigade and division commander, now com- 
manding the corps, directed the movements after the fall of Reynolds. 
Subsequently General Howard arrived, and, by virtue of' seniority, as- 
sumed command of the left wing of the army. A lull in the battle now 
followed. It lasted for over an hour. Additional forces of the enemy 
came from Cashtown on the west, from Carlisle on the north, and from 
York on the east. The Second and the Third Divisions of our corps also 
arrived, and, later, the Eleventh Corps. 

The three right regiments of Cutler's were now moved to the north end 
of the wood on Seminary Ridge, in front of which was a field of grain 
in full ear. Here they became immediately engaged with Iverson's Bri- 
gade of Rodes' Division. They were now soon joined by the Fourteenth 
and Ninety-fifth, and then supported on the right by Baxter's Brigade of 
Robinson's Division of our corps, and by joint action a large part of what 
was then left of Iverson's Brigade was then captured. The ammunition 
of Cutler's Brigade was now expended, and it was relieved by Paul's 
Brigade and moved to the east slope of the ridge, but while here, it was 
enfiladed by a battery that the enemy had placed in position on Oak Hill. 
The extreme right of our corps was at this time gallantly held by the 
Ninetieth Pennsylvania of Baxter's Brigade. The Eleventh Corps was 
then formed nearly at right angles with the general direction of our corps; 
but an opening was left on our right, and into this the enemy penetrated, 
and our line then became untenable. Then came the order to retire, but 
it came late, so that while pa-ssing through the thronged streets of the 
town the brigade lost heavily by capture. It reformed in the cemetery, 
and was there rejoined by the Seventh Indiana. But that regiment was 
at once sent to Gulp's Hill, by order of General Hancock, who had been 
s:^nt forAvard by General Meade to assume command of all the forces then 
present; there that regiment, under Colonel Grover, rendered invaluable 
services in capturing a scouting party, or rather a part of it, for some 
escaped and the report which these made influenced General Ewell in post- 
poning the attack on the hill which he had proposed to make that evening, 
until next day. Never was delay more fatal! A short time sufficed to 
reinforce the thin line of the Seventh by the remnant left of Wadsworth's 
Division, and then came shortly, a division of the Twelfth Corps, having 
upon its battle flag a silver star. And when Ewell's Corps made the at- 
tack on the following evening, you had the honor of aiding in inflicting 
the sanguinary repulse that it then met with. During the afternoon of 



;jj:6 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

that day the enemy had made a vigorous and persistant attack on the 
left of our lines then resting far out in front of the Round Tops, and 
at first gained some ground, pressing our troops back to the general line; 
but there they met with a sanguinary repulse. On the afternoon of the 
third day of the battle, the enemy opened a cannonade from his guns sta- 
tioned along the Seminary Ridge, and directed against our troops holding 
the Cemetery Ridge, hoping to shake the morale of our troops, then pene- 
trate there and cut our army in two! The cannonade lasted for two hours, 
during which the very hills seemed to be shaken by the roar of the two 
hundred guns that were brought into action. But the cannonade failed 
in its object; the morale of our troops remained unshaken, as the enemy 
discovered, when, allowing his overheated guns to cool, he launched forth 
that great column of infantry in which he had placed his last hopes for 
success, and he saw that great column torn, broken and shattered to 
pieces. Thus upon its left, upon its right, and at the center, the army 
had in turn been attacked; and at the left, at the right and at the center, 
it had inflicted a sanguinary repulse upon the assailant, and had thus, 
proved itself worthy of the confidence that was reposed in it by its new 
commander, the illustrious Meade. 

Late on the afternoon of this day, the Fifty-sixth, Seventh and the 
Ninety-fifth, were detached from the brigade and moved to the foot of the 
eastern slope of Cemetery Ridge, to support the batteries upon the crest, 
and within the cemetery grounds, and remained in support of these during 
the night. Next morning (July 4) the Fifty-sixth and the Seventh were 
moved through the town to the northeast angle, with the view of bringing 
in the wounded that might be found on the field in that direction ; but 
after some delay after having arrived at that point, the movement was 
■suspended, and the two regiments rejoined the brigade then still on Gulp's 
Hill. 

On the morning of the 5th, the brigade moved to the western slope of 
Cemetery Ridge, and bivouacked near the ground charged over by the 
enemy on the afternoon of the third day of the battle, and remained there 
until the morning of the 6th. The field return of the regiment for that 
day, shows "present for duty" eleven officers, one hundred and eleven 
men. Of the losses, one hundred and twenty occurred on the first day of 
the battle. A terrible loss, but the victory was won! And the Army of 
Northern Virginia under General Lee, was again moving rapidly for the 
Potomac river . 

Comrades, the great losses sustained on this field by the Army of the 
Potomac, and by its adversary, would alone cause the battle of Gettys- 
burg to rank as one of the greatest battles of the world; but beyond, are 
potent reasons why it will be so classed. 

It culminated in defeating a great and powerful host, one of a number 
that had been organized and marshaled to destroy that, which in the 
language of the immortal Lincoln was — and let us thank Providence that 
it still is — "a government of the people, for the people and by the people ;" 
it was upon this field that that great host which you had met on so many 
fields of battle, was defeated and turned back upon the march that 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 347 

thereafter ever led southward; aud although at times standing at bay, and 
obstinately fighting, still, ever thereafter marched southward, until at 
Appomattox it finally surrendered its colors to the grand, undaunted, in- 
destructible Army of the Potomac. 

Comrades, when the grand master of the art of warfare had cari'ied 
his army to the foot of the Pyramids, and was surrounded by an active, 
vigilant foe, desiring to animate his troops to renewed deeds of valor in 
the impending battle, he turned to them, and, pointing to the Pyramids, 
exclaimed, "Soldiers! Forty centuries are looking down upon you!" 
Comrades, no voice calls upon you to-day for renewed deeds of valor! 
Your work is done, your arms are stacked, and your battle flag, rent and 
torn so oft by shot and shell, is furled. Ten times forty centuries will 
not obliterate from the pages of the world's history the deeds of valor 
which you and your comrades of the Army of the Potomac performed 
on the many battlefields whose names cluster around that of Gettysburg. 

But hark! There comes a voice, softly, calling to you! It comes from 
yonder slope where victory on high tenders the wreath of laurel. It 
comes from the many battlefields that border the Potomac, the Rappa- 
hannock, the Rapidan, the North Anna, the Totopotomoy, the Chicka- 
hominy, the James and the Appomattox rivers. It comes from the 
graves of comrades who fought at your side, and who, while gallantly 
fighting, fell. It asks a kind recognition at this hour for those who sleep 
in a patriot-soldier's grave! Comrades, in appreciation of their gallant 
deeds, in the appreciation of the sacrifice which they made, and all that 
these have brought to their surviving comrades and to all who dwell in 
the land, let us respond by embalming their memory sacredly within our 
hearts. And let us thank Providence, that in taking a retrospective view 
from this field to-day, there comes, irresistibly, the conviction, that the 
great and incomputable expenditure of treasure and of life, and, inci- 
dentally, the untold suffering and distress extending far beyond the lines 
where the hosts were contending, that the sacrifice has not been in vain ; 
that the victory will redound to the happiness of millions who will follow 
us in the distant future ; that already a quarter of a century has passed 
since the last Confederate banner disappeared from the land ; that upon 
this very field the survivors of the Army of the Potomac have extended, 
in amity, the fraternal hand to those who were their adversaries on so 
many fields of battle; that again the flag of the Republic, with its union 
glittering with an intensified luster, waves unchallenged and gracefully, 
over all the land, from the pine-crested hills of Maine southward to the 
Rio Grande, and from the Atlantic ocean westward to the Golden Gate, 
the symbol of a free and reunited people. 



348 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



DEDICATION OP MONUMENT 

57™ REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

September 11, 1889 
ADDRESS OF CAPTAIN E. C. STROUSS 

COMRADES: — The men composing the Fifty-seventh Regiment Penn- 
sylvania Volunteers assembled in skeleton companies at Camp Cur- 
tin at Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, during the autumn months of 
1861. These companies receiving recruits from time to time, were, about 
the middle of November, merged into the Fifty-seventh Regiment. The 
men of the different companies vs^ere principally from the following coun- 
ties of the State, viz: 

Company A, Susquehanna and Wyoming; Company B and C, Mercer; 
Company D, Bradford and Tioga; Company E, Mercer and Allegheny; 
Company F, Mercer; Company G, Bradford; Company I, Mercer and 
Venango; Company K, Crawford. 

The original field, staff and line officers of the regiment were as fol- 
lows: 

Colonel, William Maxwell, of Mercer; Lieutenant-Colonel, Elhanon W. 
Woods, of Mercer; Major, Jeremiah Culp, of Bradford; Adjutant, Wil- 
liam B. Neeper, of Allegheny; Quartermaster, Horace Williston, of 
Bi-adford ; Surgeon, Jonas W. Lyman, of Clinton; Assistant Surgeon, 

A. W. Fisher, of Northumberland; Chaplain, William F. McAdam, of 
Mercer . 

The company commanders were: Company A, Captain Peter Sides; 

B, Captain, Samuel C. Simonton C, Captain Jerome B. Hoagland ; D, 
Captain Hiram W. Caulking; E, Captain James B. Moore; F, Captain 
Ralph Maxwell; G, Captain George S. Peck; H, Captain John Griffin; 
I,' Captain Thomas S. Strohecker; K, Captain Cornelius S. Chase. Non- 
commissioned staff: Sergeant-Major William Wert Chase; Hospital- 
Steward William Bollinger ; Quartermaster-Sergeant George Snell ; Com- 
missary-Sergeant John H. Rodgers. The original strength of the regi 
ment was almost eight hundred and fifty, including officers and men. 

About the 1st of December, the regiment received its arms. Companies 
A and K had the Belgian rifle, the other companies the Harper's, Ferry 
muskets. These were exchanged about the 1st of January, 1862, for the 
Austrian rifles. The latter were discarded in August, 1863, for the Spring- 
field rifled muskets, which remained the arm of the regiment until the 
close of the war. 

On the afternoon of Saturday, December 14, the regiment received its 
colors, with appropriate ceremonies, from the hands of Governor Curtin, 
and was then marched to the railroad near camp, where it boarded the 
empty freight cars en route for Washington, D. C. The next day we 



*Organlzefl at Harrisburg, Dpcember 14, 1S61, to servo three years. On the expiration 
of its term of service the original members (except veterans) were mustered out and the 
organization composed of veterans and recruits retained in service until June 29, 1865, 
when it was mu,stered out. 



Pennsylvania at Qettyshury. 349 

were in Baltimore where we were well fed by the "Union Relief Associa- 
tion" of that city. During the following night we arrived at Washing- 
ton, where we were quartered at the large building known as the "Soldiers' 
Retreat," adjoining the Baltimore and Ohio railroad depot. The next 
day, after receiving a sufficient number of "Sibley tents," the regiment 
was marched to a point about a mile northeast of the capital, where it 
encamped near the toll gate on the old Bladensburg road. While we re- 
mained in the camp we formed a part of the Provisional Brigade com- 
manded by General Silas Casey. In February, 1862, we moved across the 
Potomac, and encamped near Fort Lyon, about two miles southwest of 
Alexandria, Virginia. While here we were assigned to Jameson's Brigade 
of Heintzelman's Division. Dn March 8, 1862, by order of President Lin- 
coln, the formation of "Army Corps" was adopted. General Heintzelman 
was assigned to the command of the Third Corps. He was succeeded in 
command of his division (the Third) by General C. S. Hamilton. The 
First and Second Divisions were commanded by General Fitz John Por- 
ter and Joseph Hooker respectively. The composition of Hamilton's Di- 
vision was as follows: 

First Brigade, General C. D. Jamison, Fifty-seventh, Sixty-third and 
One hundred and fifth, Pennsylvania Volunteers, and Eighty-seventh New 
York Volunteers. Second Brigade, General D. B. Birney, Third and 
Fourth Maine Volunteers, Thirty-eighth and Fortieth New York Volun- 
teei's. Third Brigade, General H. G. Berry, Thirty seventh New York 
Volunteers, Second, Third and Fifth Michigan Volunteers. The artillery 
of the division consisted of the following batteries: Thompson's Bat- 
tery G, Second United States Artillery; Beam's Battery B, New Jersey 
Artillery, and Randolph's Battery E, First Rhode Island Artillery. 
Colonel Maxwell of the Fifty-seventh, resigned March 10, 1862, and was 
succeeded by Colonel Charles T. Campbell, formerly colonel of the First 
Pennsylvania Artillery. On March 17, Hamilton's Division began to em- 
bark for the Peninsula. The Fifty-seventh marched to Alexandria on that 
day, but as the transports were not all ready we passed the night on the 
wharves at that place, and next moriaing got on board the steamer "Ken- 
nebec," on which was also a part of the One hundred and fifth Pennsyl- 
vania, and steamed down the Potomac. The next afternoon we landed 
at Fortress Monroe during a rain storm. For several days we were quar- 
tered in the lofts of some cavalry sheds, after which we went into camp 
near the burned town of Hampton. Here for two weeks we were abund- 
antly exercised in drill, inspections and reviews. 

On the morning of April 4, we struck tents, and started towards York- 
town, Va.; arriving before that place on the afternoon of Api-il 5. The 
first picket duty of the regiment was performed by companies A and K, 
on the night of the 6th. On the left of the line, where Company K was 
stationed, the enemy opened fire on the morning of the 7th. Their fire 
was returned with good effect, as they were seen carrying off several 
bodies, while on our side there were no casualties. While the regiment 
was on picket near the same place, a few days later, we were fired on 
by a piece of the enemy's artillery from a small fort in our front. One 
of their shells exploded near a group of our men, killing one instantly. 



350 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

His name was George Varrick, of Compauy G. He was the first man 
killed in the regiment. The first skirmish the regiment had with the 
enemy occurred at Palmentary's peach orchard near the Warwick road on 
the afternoon of April 11. The Sixty-third Pennsylvania was on picket 
and was fiercely attacked by the enemy, when the rest of our brigade was 
ordered out in support. The Fifty-seventh formed line in the edge of the 
woods, behind a rail fence, and soon became briskly engaged with the 
enemy. Some of our artillery also opened fire, and for a while consider- 
able noise was made. The rebels were driven back to their works and 
the affair was soon over. In this skirmish four men of the Fifty-seventh 
were wounded, one of them dying a few days afterward. We were kept 
busy whUe at Yorktown, constructing earthworks and roads, picketing and 
skirmishing with the enemy. Out of the thirty days we were in front of 
the place it rained at least twenty. The inclement weather together with 
the bad water we were obliged to drink while there, greatly increased our 
sick list, so that we were obliged to leave forty-five sick in the hospitals 
when we left the place. 

General Hamilton who had protested against the excessive fatigue duty 
required of his men, was relieved from command of the division on the 
1st of May, and succeeded by the famous one-armed soldier. General 
"Phil Kearny." The enemy evacuated their stronghold at Yorktown on 
Saturday night. May 3, and the next morning Stoneman's Cavalry and 
Hooker's Division led the advance in the pursuit, followed by our division 
about 2 p. m. We marched to a point about three miles west of York- 
town, and then encamped for the night. It began to rain during the night 
and continued to do so throughout the next day. We were up by day- 
light on the 5th, and had finished our breakfast, expecting to move at once 
toward the front. We did not go forward, however, until 9 o'clock a. m. 
Meanwhile we were watching the troops of all arms moving past us toward 
the front. When we did start we had gone but a short distance, when we 
found our march much obstructed by wagons stuck in the mud, and by 
the troops of Sumner's and Keyes' corps. Hooker, about 7 a. m., be- 
came engaged with the enemy at Williamsburg, twelve miles west of York- 
town, and Kearny was striving hard to go to his assistance. Our bri- 
gade was the rear one in the division that day, and from the horrible 
condition of the roads it seemed as though we were making little or no 
progress toward the front. When within about two miles of the battle- 
field, we were ordered to throw off our knapsacks — which were left in 
charge of guards— and proceed to the front with all possible speed. Night 
was fast approaching, and Hooker, whose regiments were hard pressed, 
thought he must yield to the enemy his hard-fought for position, when 
Kearny, with two of his brigades, arrived to support him. Our brigade 
arriving on the field, was formed in line near the enemy, the Fifty-seventh 
on the left of the Williamsburg road, with the One hundred and fifth 
Pennsylvania in its rear. The Eighty-seventh New York was formed 
on the right of the road, with the Sixty-third Pennsylvania in its rear. 
We were considerably exposed to the fire of the enemy, but did not be- 
come actively engaged. At night we moved to the front line and bivouacked 
for the night among our dead and wounded comrades. This was the 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg.- 351 

lirst real battle on the Peninsula, and the night spent on that field, in 
the cold rain, among the dead and dying, will long be remembered by the 
men of the Fifty-seventh, as one of the most harrowing in all its ex- 
perience. 

The next morning it was found that the enemy had again retreated, 
when, at daylight, we advanced and occupied the town, the Fifty-seventh 
going a mile or so in advance on picket. 

On May 7, we resumed the advance, marching a few miles each day, 
until about the 15th, when we reached Cumberland Landing in New Kent 
county. The whole army was concentrated here, but moved forward the 
day after our arrival. The place, which is on the Pamunkey river, was 
made a temporary depot of supplies, and the Fifty-seventh remained here 
for a week doing guard duty after the rest of the army had left. A new 
depot having been established further up the river, at White House Land- 
ing, the one at Cumberland was abandoned, whereupon the Fifty-seventh 
moved on and rejoined the division at Baltimore Cross Roads. 

On Sunday, May 25, we crossed the Chickahominy at Bottom's ridge, 
thirteen miles from Richmond via the Williamsburg stage road. 

On the afternoon and night of May 30 it rained in torrents, which 
raised the Chickahominy bank full and overflowed the low land on its 
borders. At this time the corps of Sumner, Franklin and Porter were on 
the left or east bank of the Chickahominy, and the corps of Heintzelman 
and Keyes were on the right bank. Casey's Division of Keyes' Corps was 
in advance, at a place called "Seven Pines," on the Williamsburg road, 
about seven miles from Richmond. The camp of the Fifty-seventh was 
about five miles in rear of this, in a pine grove near the Richmond and 
York River railroad. General Joseph E. Johnston, who commanded the 
rebel forces, knowing that the swollen state of the Chickahominy would 
render it diflicult or impossible for the right of our army to assist the 
left, concluded to attack that portion on his side of the river. 

About 1 o'clock p. m., of May 31, he suddenly and fiercely attacked 
Casey's Division which soon yas overpowered and driven from the field. 
The other divisions of Keyes' Corps, and part of Kearny's Division, were 
next engaged. In the camp of the Fifty-seventh we were ordered to fall in, 
and after being told to remain in camp and be ready to move at a mo- 
ment's notice, we stacked arms, broke ranks and lounged about wonder- 
ing where we were to be sent. About 2 p. m., the regiment left camp, 
and marched through the woods for a short distance, until we reached the 
railroad, when we filed to the left, and started up the road on the double- 
quick in the direction of Richmond. 

On reaching the battlefield we were ordered to support the Third 
Maine, who were in position behind a rail fence a few rods in our front. 
We were there but a few minutes when we were ordered to go to the sup- 
of the First Long Island (Sixty-seventh New York) which was supposed 
to be somewhere in the woods on the left of the Williamsburg road. Cap- 
tain Hassler of General Jameson's staff was to guide us to the place. After 
floundering about in the woods, through swamps and over logs, further 
search for the First Long Island was abandoned. 



352 Pennsylvmiia at (Jcttysburg. 

The Fifty-seventh then formed line on the edge of the woods, with the 
right resting near the road. We were soon attacked by the enemy who 
were thrice our strength, but our little regiment made a gallant stand, 
and it was not until our colonel and major were stricken down, and we 
were outflanked on our right, that the regiment retired from the field. 

Our losses in this engagement, which is known as the battle of "Fair 
Oaks," were Major Gulp killed, Captain C. S. Chase wounded (died June 
17), Colonel Campbell severely wounded in arm and groin, and several 
other officers slightly wounded. Enlisted men, ten killed, forty-nine 
wounded and three missing. 

The battle was renewed next day when Hooker's Division and a part 
of Sumner's Corps drove the enemy from the field and occupied the ground 
in advance of Casey's former position. From June 1 to June 25, the regi- 
ment was engaged in picketing and in constructing roads and fortifi- 
cations. 

On the morning of June 25, the divisions of Kearny and Hooker were 
ordered to advance, which soon brought on a brisk engagement, resulting 
in a loss on the Union side of about three hundred killed and wounded. 
The loss in the Fifty-seventh was two men wounded. Although the enemy 
was driven backward for about a mile, in the evening our forces returned 
to the position occupied in the morning, by orders from army headquar- 
ters. This engagement is called "Oak Grove;" the enemy call it "King's 
School House." The regiment remained in the front line until June 28, 
when with the division it moved a mile to the rear, and occupied the 
breastworks at the crossing of the Williamsburg road, and near Savage 
Station. The day previous the enemy had defeated our right wing at 
Gaines' Mill, and the retreat to the James river had commenced. 

In the evening one hundred and fifty rounds of ammunition was issued 
to each man, and at the same time, by order of General Kearny, every 
officer and man of his division was ordered to wear on his cap a red patch 
about an inch and a half square, in order that they might be readily dis- 
tinguished in battle and on the march. This, was the first distinctive badge 
worn in the Army of the Potomac. In April, 1863, when "Corps Badges" 
were adopted by that army, the badge assigned to the Third Corps was 
in the shape of a diamond or lozenge. "Kearny's Old Division" continued 
to wear its "Red Diamond" until the close of the war. 

The swamps among which we had been encamped at Fair Oaks, and the 
bad water we were obliged to drink, had greatly increased our sick list, 
and many of the Fifty-seventh had died in the hospital since the 1st of 
June. When the retreat commenced the sick and convalescents were or- 
dered to Savage Station, and from there were conducted, in charge of 
proper officers, to James river. Of this party the Fifty-seventh furnished 
at least a hundred. Of those who remained with the regiment and car- 
ried muskets, the number was about two hundred and many of these were 
barely able to stand the fatigue of the march. 

On the morning of the 29th the regiment was sent across a large field 
and into the woods near the camp we had left the day previous. We re- 
mained here on picket until noon, when we moved back again and retook 
our position at the breastworks. 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshnrg. 353 

The rebel General Magruder was advancing with his division, and shells 
from his artillery were bursting near us. About 4 o'clock p. m., we 
moved a short distance to the rear, and formed line in a large field, and 
soon after we took a road leading through the woods, and were on our 
way to White Oak Swamp, which we crossed at Brackett's Ford. General 
J. C. Robinson had command of our brigade, succeeding Genei-al Jameson, 
who was injured by the falling of his horse at Fair Oaks. General Jame- 
son died at his home in Maine in November following. Having crossed 
the White Oak Swamp, we arrived about 10 p. m., on the ground where, 
next day, June 30, was fought the battle of "Glendale," better known by 
the men of the Fifty-seventh as the battle of "Charles City Cross Roads." 

The object of making a stand here, was to hold the enemy in ckeck 
until our long train of wagons and ambulances had passed in safety to 
James river. Had the enemy suceeded in breaking through our line at 
this point great disaster would have befallen our army. On our side the 
battle was fought principally by three divisions, Slocum on the right, 
Kearny in the center and McCall on the left. These troops were rein- 
forced during the battle by troops from other divisions. 

The Fifty seventh had a good position, behind a low rail fence, on the 
edge of a small chaparral, with the left of the regiment in rear of Thomp- 
son's battery. The battle commenced about 4 p. m., the enemy making 
the most desperate charges in heavy masses. Their ranks were fearfully 
decimated by the fire of our artillery and infantry, and their most per- 
sistent efforts failed to make a lodgement within our line. The firing was 
kept up until 10 p. m., when silence reigned over the field. 

In his report of this action Lieutenant-Colonel Woods states that the 
Fifty-seventh had fourteen ofiicers and one hundred and seventy-four en- 
listed men engaged. Our casualties were seven men killed, three officers 
and fifty-four men wounded and eighteen men captured. Among the offi- 
cers wounded was acting Major Simonton. We held our position in line 
of battle until 1 o'clock in the morning of July 1, and then took up our 
march for Malvern Hill. 

In the battle which occurred at this place the Fifty-seventh did not be- 
come heavily engaged, although we suffered some loss from the enemy's 
artillery fire. We had one officer and one enlisted man killed, eight en- 
listed men wounded and four missing. During a lull in the battle, while 
Lieutenant Charles O. Etz and the first sergeant of Company D were lying 
side by side fast asleep, a rebel shell exploded nearby, the fragments of 
which killed both instantly. We left the field of Malvern HUl about day- 
light of the 2d, and after a weary march through mud and rain, we 
reached Harrison's Landing on the James river about 6 p. m. We re- 
mained in camp at this place until the middle of August, during which 
time we performed the usual routine of camp duties. General Kearny 
used to drill the whole division together three times a week in a large 
field about Iwo miles from camp. 

While in this camp Lieutenant-Colonel Woods was taken sick and sent 
to the hospital, and was soon after honorably discharged. This left us 
without a field officer present. There were but two captains present, Max- 
well and Strohecker, and these at different times had command of the 



354 Pennsylvania at Gettyshii.rf/. 

regiment. On August 12, the Fifty-seventh was transferred to General 
Birney's Second Brigade. About the same time Major William Birney 
of the Fourth New Jersey Volunteers was temporarily assigned to the 
command of the regiment which he retained until the following October. 

General Lee having moved a large portion of his army northward to 
confront General Pope, who was moving southward from Culpeper, Va., 
preparations were made by our army to evacuate the Peninsula and go to 
Pope's assistance. 

Kearny's division began its march on August 15, and the evening of 
that day found us at Jones' bridge on the Chickahominy. On the 16th, 
we marched to Liberty church at Diascond bridge. The next day the 
Fifty-seventh was detached from the division, and took a road to the right 
of the main column, acting as jfiankers. We had a long march, but the 
roads were good, and after dark we reached the old Williamsburg road, 
and encamped near the rest of the division a few miles west of Williams- 
burg. 

On the 18th, after a hot and dusty march, we arrived at Yorktown about 
5 p. m. The next day we got on board a steamer (Avhere we were packed 
like herring in a box), and on the afternoon of the 25th, we disembarked 
at Alexandria, Va. About dark we boarded the cars of the Orange and 
Alexandria railroad, and the next morning found us near Wan-en ton 
Junction, where we left the train and encamped. Our division was among 
the first troops of the Army of the Potomac to reach Pope. 

For several days we moved to various points along the railroad and on 
night of the 26th, we were on picket at Bealton Station, near the Rappa- 
hannock. General Lee having flanked Pope's right, and gained our rear, 
our army began to fall back towards Centerville. On August 27, our 
regiment began the rearward movement, and marched from Bealton to 
Greenwich. On the 28th, we moved via Bristow Station to Manassas 
Junction, where we halted for several hours. Here could be seen smoking 
ruins of the depot and long trains of cars destroyed by Stonewall Jack- 
son the day previous. Resuming our march we arrived at Centerville 
after dark, and halted in what had been a rebel camp the previous winter. 
At daylight next morning we moved toward the enemy, and were soon 
upon the ground where was fought the second battle of Bull Run. Our 
division occupied a position near Sudley Springs. About 8 p. m., the 
division attacked the left of Jackson's line, and drove it back for half a 
mile. The Fifty-seventh had three men wounded in this engagement. On 
the 30th, there was but little fighting on our part of the line, but on the 
left the army was hotly engaged, and was repulsed. The whole army fell 
back to Centerville at night. 

Late in the afternoon of September 1, the division was hurriedly ordered 
to fall in, and was then rapidly marched several miles to Chantilly, where 
a battle was in progress. When we reached the field a violent thunder 
storm was raging and it was almost dark. The regiment occupied the 
battlefield that night as pickets. In this action we had one man wounded. 
It was in this battle that the brave and accomplished soldier. General 
"Phil Kearny" was killed. He fell within the lines of the enemy. The 
next morning his body was sent inside our line by General Lee, when a de- 



Pennsylvania at Cicftijsburg. 355 

tachmont of the Fifty-seventh acted as an escort of the corpse to Wash- 
ington. 

On the 2d, our division started for Alexandria, Va., and on the after- 
noon of the 3d, we reached that place and encamped once more near Fort 
Lyon. 

The Fifty-seventh had been greatly depleted in numbers since it left 
this place in March previous. Then it had in its ranks about seven hun- 
dred men for duty, now, owing to battle and disease, it could muster 
barely two hundred and fifty. We remained in this vicinity until the 
16th of September, when the division (now commanded by General Stone- 
man) moved up the Potomac via Rockville and Poolesville to Conrad's 
Ferry. We encamped here for six weeks, our brigade guarding the river 
from the mouth of the Monocacy to Edwards' Ferry. 

On September 25, companies D and G, were disbanded and the men as- 
signed to other companies. From this time until January 15, 1865, the 
regiment consisted of but eight companies. About the 1st of October 
the regiment, accompanied by a section of artillery and a squadron of 
Colonel Duffle's cavalry, crossed the Potomac at Conrad's Ferry, and 
made a reconnaissance to Leesburg, which is located about three miles 
from the ferry. We captured a few prisoners in the town and returned 
to our camps in the evening. 

On October 11, our brigade took part in the expedition sent out to cap- 
ture Stuart's cavalry, which had crossed above the right of our army and 
made a raid on Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. Owing to some mismanage- 
ment, the enemy was allowed to recross the river with all his booty at 
White's Ford, with a loss of but two or three men whom we captured. On 
the 10th of October, Colonel Campbell returned and took command of the 
regiment, relieving Major Birney, who was assigned to the Thirty-eighth 
New York. A general advance of the army being ordered, we crossed the 
river on October 28 and moved southward. When near Warrenton, Vir- 
ginia, on November 7, General McClellan was relieved from command 
of the army, and was succeeded by General Burnside. 

On November 12, near Waterloo Bridge, six men of Company K were 
captured, while returning from a foraging expedition, by some of Stuart's 
cavalry. About the 20th of November, we reached Falmouth, Virginia, 
and the whole army being concentrated there, we expected soon to be 
engaged with the enemy who were on the opposite side of the Rappahan- 
nock on the hills in rear of Fredericksburg. No immediate attack was 
made, however, and the weather growing cold, our army went into winter 
quarters about the 1st of December. On the 11th we broke camp, and that 
night bivouacked in a large field near our camp. On the evening of the 
12th, we moved down the river, near the pontoon bridge, where Franklin's 
Grand Division had already crossed. About 11 a. m. next day, our di- 
vision began to cross over, and after marching a short distance we were 
halted and then laid down under a heavy fire of the enemy's artillery. 
About 3 p. m. we were ordered forward to support an attack that had 
been made by General Meade's Pennsylvania Reserves. Colonel Camp- 
bell moved the regiment forward in splendid style, and after passing Ran- 
dolph's Battery we took position in a ditch, and opened fire on the enemy. 



356 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

which checked their advance, and frustrated their hopes of capturing 
Randolph's Battery. Our position in the ditch enabled the battery to fire 
over us, killing a number of the enemy, some of whom fell into the ditch 
we occupied. The enemy fell back into the woods, but many of them who 
had taken refuge in the ditch became our prisoners when we were relieved 
after dark by the One hundred and fourteenth Pennsylvania Volunteers. 

On the 14th, the regiment remained on the field in rear of our batteries, 
until dark, when we were again sent to the extreme front, where we 
stayed until about midnight on the 15th, when with the rest of the army 
we recrossed the river. In the battle. Colonel Campbell, who still carried 
his arm in a sling (from a wound received at Fair Oaks), was again se- 
verely wounded in the same arm and in the groin. He was afterward 
promoted to brigadier-general and assigned to the "Department of the 
Northwest." Surgeon Kennedy and Captain Strohecker were also wounded. 
The latter was soon after honorably discharged. Our loss at Fredericks- 
burg was twenty-one enlisted men killed, three ofiicers and fifty-four en- 
listed men wounded and fifty-three men captured. Captain Peter Sides of 
Company A, who had been absent on account of sickness, returned on 
December 15, and, having been promoted lieutenant-colonel, he took com- 
mand of the regiment. The division reoccupied its old camp which was 
now namd "Camp Pitcher," in honor of Major Pitcher of the Fourth 
Maine, who was killed at Fredericksburg. 

Between the 20th and 23d of January, 1863, we took part in the famous 
"Mud March," when we "marched so far in one day that it took us two 
days to get back." 

On January 25, General Hooker succeeded General Burnside in com- 
mand of the army. General Birney our division, and General Ward our 
brigade. 

Soon after the battle of Fredericksburg, certain evil-disposed persons at 
the north were loud in their assertions that the Army of the Potomac was 
demoralized and tired of the war, and circulated other reports derogatory 
to the character of that army. To confute such reports, and to denounce 
those with whom they originated, a meeting of the ofiicers and men of 
the Fifty-seventh was held on February 26, at which resolutions were 
adopted denouncing as false the calumnious reports circulated concerning 
the army. One of the resolutions declared that the Fifty-seventh would 
sustain the government in the future as in the past, a resolution which 
was made good by three-fourths of the regiment re-enlisting for three years 
in the following December. Our regiment was the first to adopt resolu- 
tions of this nature, which were ordered to be published in the news- 
papers in the counties from which the regiment was raised. Our example 
was followed by many of the regiments of the Army of the Potomac. 

Camp Pitcher was abandoned on March 4, when we moved about four 
miles and laid out a new camp near the railroad bridge over Potomac 
creek. On the same day, the Fifty-seventh was reassigned to the First 
Brigade, commanded by Colonel CoUis, who was succeeded a few days 
later by General Charles K. Graham. The brigade now consisted of six 
Pennsylvania regiments, viz: Fifty-seventh, Sixty-third, Sixty-eighth, 
One hundred and fifth. One hundred and fourteenth and One hundred and 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 357 

forty-first. The two last mentioned and the Sixty-eighth were new regi- 
ments which entered the service in September, 1862. 

On the afternoon of April 28, 1863, we left camp, and in a drizzling rain 
marched to near Franklin's Crossing on the Rappahannock ; this was our 
initiation into what is known as the Chancellorville Campaign. 

On the 29th we moved backward and forward to various points along the 
river, the object of which seemed to be to lead the enemy to think that 
we were going to cross and attack at that place. On the 30th the weather 
had become clear and warm, and about noon we started up the river road, 
and at night halted near Hartwood Church. Next morning we crossed the 
river at the United States Ford. About 2 p. m. the march was resumed 
and' soon after we reached the Chancellor House, a large brick building 
on the Fredericksburg and Orange plank road. After a short halt our 
brigade was marched westward along the plank road, for almost a mile, 
to Dowdall's tavern in rear of the position of the Eleventh Corps. We 
remained here but a short time when we marched back and rejoined the 
division near the Chancellor House, halting for the night in a large field. 
The enemy annoyed us some by shelling us with their artillery which was 
posted near the Old Furnace, but did no damage. 

On the morning of May 2, we moved west on the plank road for a short 
distance, and then, turning to the left, we marched along a road leading 
through the woods, on the southern border of which we threw up a line 
of works of logs and dirt. This is the position known as Hazel Grove. 
About noon a column of the enemy, and a wagon train, was seen moving 
across our front about a mile distant, and as their course was southward 
it was thought that they were retreating. Our artillery opened on them, 
which caused them to take another road. Our division was advanced, 
skirmishing with the enemy, and soon captured the Twenty-third Georgia 
which was stationed at Welford's Furnace. 

Barlow's Division of the Eleventh Corps was advancing with us on our 
right. On reaching the high ground overlooking the furnace a halt was 
made and the line rectified. It was growing late in the day and every- 
thing seemed to be moving along finely, when abput 6 o'clock a tremendous 
cannonade was heard in the vicinity of the plank road and Hazel Grove, 
which we had left but a few hours before. It proved to be the onset of 
Stonewall Jackson, who, by marching along roads hidden by the woods, 
had reached the right and rear of our army and was driving back in con- 
fusion the divisions of Schurz and Steinwehr of the Eleventh Corps. 

At dark we were ordered to fall in and move to the rear, at the same 
time we were cautioned to make as little noise as possible. We soon 
reached the open field in front of the line of works we had thrown up in 
the morning, and which now were held by the enemy. Ward's Brigade on 
our right nmde a charge into the woods and succeeded in driving back the 
enemy far enough to give us an opening to get out in the morning. At the 
dawn of day on the 3d the enemy's skirmishers attacked us on our left, 
their fire enfilading our line, and as the ground would not permit our form- 
ing a line to oppose them, we faced to the right and double-quicked until 
we reached the large field which runs back to the Chancellor House. 
Here the regiments were deployed, and faced the enemy, and untU 10 

24 



358 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

o'clock we were in some of the hottest lighting seen during the war. 
General Hooker had been injured by a shell and General Couch had tem- 
porary command . 

Our corps commander Genei'al Sickles, had asked to be reinforced from 
the unemployed troops in the rear, but none came. After having re- 
pulsed chai-ge after charge we were finally withdrawn to a new line in the 
rear. 

We did not again become engaged with the enemy but they gave us a 
severe shelling while we occupied the new entrenched line, on the evening 
of the 4th, wounding some of our men. 

The casualties in the Fifty-seventh at Chancellorsville were. Captain 
E. J. Rice of Company E, and Lieutenant Joseph Brady of Company H,, 
killed ; eleven enlisted men killed ; three officers and forty-five enlisted men 
wounded and twenty-three men captured. Chaplain McAdam and Assistant- 
Surgeon Leet were captured, but were soon after paroled and exchanged. 
On the afternoon of the 5th a rain storm set in, which continued through 
the night and next day, raising the river, and threatening to sweep 
away our pontoon bridges. 

On the morning of the 6th, we recrossed the river at United States 
ford and after a hard march through mud and rain, we reached our old 
camps about dark. 

The weather having become quite Avarm, we abandoned our winter quar- 
ters the last week in May, and moved about two miles, and pitched our 
tents in a large field near Belle Plain Landing, where we remained until 
the Gettysburg campaign opened on the 11th of June. About 1 p. m. 
on that day we packed up in a hurry and began our long march northward. 
The weather was exceedingly warm, and there was considerable straggling, 
but the men all came up at night, after we had halted near Hartwood. 
On the 12th, we marched to near Bealton Station, on the O. & A. R. R. 
On the 13th, we marched a few miles towards Rappahannock Station. 
On the 14th, we started in the evening and marched to Catlett's Station, 
arriving about midnight. On the 15th, we moved to Manassas Junction. 
This was one of the hottest days of the summer, and about forty men 
were prostrated by sunstroke in our division. 

On the 16th, we moved to Bull Run, camping at Mitchell's Ford.- On 
the 17th our march was continued to Centreville. Late in the afternoon 
of the 19th, we started for Gum Springs. We had not gone far when a 
severe storm of rain, thunder and lightning set in. We arrived at Gum 
Springs about 3 a. m., on the 20th, when part of the regiment went on 
picket, and the rest laid down on the drenched soil to sleep. 

We remained at this place until the 25th. It having been ascertained 
that Lee's army had crossed the upper Potomac, and was on the march 
to Pennsylvania, we broke camp and crossed the Potomac at Edwards' 
Ferry, and from thence moved up the river to the mouth of the Monocacy. 
On the 26th, we moved to Point of Rocks on the Potomac. 

On the 27th, we resumed our march at 8 a. m., and marching through 
Jefferson, we halted for the night near Middletown, Md. On the 28th, 
we marched through Middletown and Frederick City, halting for the night 
a mile or so beyond the city. In the evening we learned that General 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 359 

Hooker had been relieved from the commaud of the army, and had been 
succeeded by General George C. ^leade. On the 29th, we moved one mile 
beyond Taney town, and encamped for the night in a pleasant grove. On 
the 30th, we moved to Bridgeport near Emmitsburg, Md. 

On July 1, we left Emmitsburg about 1 p. m., and after a hard march 
through the mud, we arrived after dark at a point about two miles south 
of Gettysburg. We bivouacked for the night in a field to the right and 
in rear of the Trostle house. 

The Sixty-third Pennsylvania of our brigade was sent on picket, and 
early in the morning of the 2d, they began skirmishing with the enemy. 

The Sixty-third was occupying- the peach orchard and the ground about 
'the Sherfy house and barn. 

About three o'clock our brigade moved out and was posted on the east 
side of, and within a few rods of the Emmitsburg road. The regiments of 
the brigade were posted from right to left in the following order. The 
One hundred and fifth on the right of the Sherfy house, the Fifty-seventh 
opposite the house, next the One hundred and fourteenth. Sixty-eighth and 
One hundred and forty-first. The latter was in the peach orchard. From 
the peach orchard the line of our division (Birney's) curved around to the 
Devil's Den at the foot of Round Top, where Ward's brigade was stationed. 

Hood's division of Longstreet's Corps, was opposed to our left, and 
McLaws' division of the same corps, was opposite our right, Barksdale's 
brigade of the latter being opposed to our brigade. 

For about two hours after we took position near the road, we were 
exposed to one of the hottest artillery fires we ever encountered. The 
enemy's batteries south of the orchard, and west of the road, poured a regu- 
lar stream of shells towards us, but fortunately most of them exploded after 
passing over us. 

When this fire slackened, the enemy's infantry advanced towards us 
through the fields west of Sherfy's house. The Fifty-second and One 
hundred and fourteeth were then ordered to cross the road to meet the 
enemy. The Fifty-seventh took advantage of the cover afforded by the 
house and adjoining out-buildings, and opened fire with good effect. 

No doubt the regiments stationed at this point could have beaten back 
the enemy, but we had not been long engaged, when we learned that the 
enemy had broken through the angle at the peach orchard, and were swarm- 
ing up the road in our rear. It was evident that if we remained at the 
house, we would all be captured, so we were obliged to fall back. We tried 
to warn our comrades, who had sought the cover of the house, and were 
firing from its doors and windows, but could not make them understand the 
situation, and all were captured. 

During all this time the battle was raging fiercely at the Round Tops, 
Devil's Den and the wheatfield. The Excelsior Brigade of our Second Di- 
vision, and troops of the Second Corps were sent to our assistance, and 
the battle raged until dark in the fields between Plum Run and the Em- 
mitsburg Road. Birney's division at the opening of the battle occupied 
a very exposed position, and in trying to hold it, had met with such severe 
losses that it was not again actively engaged during the battle The 
Fifty-seventh entered the fight with a total of two hundred and nine officers 



860 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

and men. It lost, officers, two killed, nine wounded and four captured. 
Enlisted men, twelve killed, thirty-four wounded and fifty-five captured, 
a total of one hundred and fifteen, being over half the number that entered 
the battle. 

Lieutenant Henry Mitchell of Company E, and Lieutenant John P. Cox 
of Company I were killed. Among the wounded were Lieutenant-Colonel 
Sides, Acting Adjutant Nelson and Captain Houser. Major Neeper was 
captured and remained a prisoner for about a year when he was exchanged. 
Lieutenant Crossley, after one ineffectual attempt to escape in November, 
1864, succeeded on a second trial and escaped from prison at Columbia, 
S. C, and entered the Union lines December 20, 1864, after his term of 
service had expired. 

Lieutenant Hinds was one of the one hundred and ninety-officers who 
escaped from the famous tunnel at Libby Prison in February, 1864, but 
he had the misfortune to be recaptured, and remained a prisoner until 
shortly before J;he war closed, and was honorably discharged in May, 7865. 

Lieutenant Burns remained a prisoner until after his term of service 
expired and was honorably discharged in March, 1865. 

Of the fifty-five enlisted men who, on the 2d of July were captured at 
Gettysburg, forty-four died in southern prisons. 

On the morning of July 3, our brigade was posted in a small grove, about 
three-fourth of a mile in rear and to the right of the Sherfy house. Plere 
we enjoyed a good rest under the shade of the trees, until about 2 p. m., 
when the tremendous cannonade that preceded Pickett's charge began. 
Soon after we were ordered into line, and facing to the right we took the 
double-quick step, and on reaching the open field, we formed line in rear 
of our artUlery, which was busily engaged in replying to the enemy's guns. 

Immense cheering was soon after heard on the right, and then we learned 
that the last attempt on our lines had failed . 

At night the regiment went to the front on picket, being posted on 
ground that was thickly strewn with dead men and horses ; and as some of 
these had been dead for twenty -four hours, the stench was sickening. At 
daylight we rejoined the brigade, the enemy in the meantime having begun 
their retreat. 

We remained at Gettysburg until July 7, when our corps moved off, 
passing through Emmitsburg to Mechanicstown, Md. On the 8th, we 
passed through Frederick City and encamped two miles beyond the town . 
On the 9th, we started from near Middletown and marched to South 
Mountain . 

About this time the division of General W. H. French was assigned to 
the corps, and was designated as the Third Division. General French 
took command of the corps, succeeding General Sickles, who lost a leg 
at Gettsyburg. Colonel Madill of the One hundred and forty-first com- 
manded the brigade. General Graham being made a prisoner in the late 
battle. 

On July 10, we marched fi'om South Mountain to about five miles beyond 
Keedysville, Md. 

On the 11th, we marched to near Falling Waters. On the 12th, we were 
drawn up in line of battle and expected to make an attack on the entrench- 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 361 

ments of the enemy, but we were not ordered forward. The enemy 
huving recrossed the river into Virginia, we left our camps on the 15th 
and after passing over the old Antietam battleground, we halted about 
two miles beyond Sharpsburg. On the IGth, we passed through Browns- 
ville and Rohrersville, and encamped near Harper's Ferry. On the 17th, 
we crossed the Potomac at Harper's Ferry, and were once more in Vir- 
ginia. We resumed the march on the 18th and 19th, and on the 20th, we 
reached Uppcrville. On the 23d, we were near Manassas Gap, where it 
was expected we would strike the enemy's column, that was moving up the 
Shenandoah Valley. We moved to the top of a high hill, where we had 
a line view of the surrounding country, and also witnessed a battle between 
a small force of the enemy and the Excelsior brigade. The Fifty-seventh 
was only slightly engaged and had a few men wounded. The enemy having 
disappeared during the night, we marched next day some miles beyond Pied- 
mont on the Manassas Gap railroad. 

The greater part of our march was over the torn up railroad track, 
and as the weather was excessively hot, we were a tired lot of men v/hen 
we encamped that nig'ht. On the 25th, we marched to within six miles 
of Warrenton, and on the 2Gth, wc moved to Sulphur Springs about four 
miles Vest of Warrenton. At this place we encamped for about six weeks, 
during which time Colonel Sides, and some of the officers and men that had 
been wounded at Chaucellorsville and Gettysburg, returned for duty We 
had a Hue camp, with good facilities for bathing in Hedgeman's river, a 
branch of the Rappahannock. For exercise we had frequent brigade and 
regimental drills, with occasional picket duty. 

We broke camp on September 16, and crossed the Rappahannock at 
Freeman's Ford near which we bivouacked for the night, and the next day 
we moved on and encamped near Culpeper. 

Here we remained until October 11, when it was found that General Lee 
was trying to turn our right, and get in our rear as he had done the year 
before. This made a retrograde movement of our army a necessity. On 
the afternoon of the 11th we moved to the rear, recrossed the river, and 
about dark camped a few miles south of Sulphur Springs. We continued 
our move to the rear and on the 13th, about 4 p. m., we encountered the 
enemy's cavalry at Auburn Creek. Our brigade held the advance of the 
column on that day, and the Fifty-seventh was the leading regiment. Com- 
panies A and K acted as advance guard. These companies deployed on 
either side of the road, and opened fire on the enemy's cavalry, who were 
dismounted and were advancing thi'ough the woods and open fields. Our 
firing soon brought up the rest? of our brigade and a battery. A few 
shells thrown toward the enemy sufficed to drive them off ; when we moved 
on and at night halted at the village of Greenwich. 

On the 14th, we marched to Centreville, via Bristoe and Manassas Junc- 
tion. On the 15th, we moved to Fairfax Station, where we remained until 
the 19th. 

The enemy having declined to attack us in position in Centreville, they 
retreated, closely followed by our army. On the 19th, we again moved 
forward and encamped near Bristoe Station. On the 20th, we marched 
through Greenwich and encamped about two miles beyond the town. On 



302 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

the 21st, we passed through Auburo, and over the ground where Hays' 
Division of the Second Corps had engaged the enemy a few days before. 
At night we encamped near Catlett's Station on the O. & A. R. R. 

From this date until November 7, we moved to various points along the 
line of the railroad, which having been destroyed by the enemy, made it 
necessary for us to rebuild it ; consequently our advance was slow . 

At 5 a. m., November 7, we broke camp and moved to Kelly's Ford on 
the Rappahannock. Here the enemy disputed our crossing and a brisk 
skirmish ensued. They finally relinquished their attempts to build the ford/ 
when we crossed over and encamped. In this skirmish, while Captain T. 
L. Maynard, our brigade inspector, was giving a drink of water to a 
wounded rebel, he was mortally wounded and died next morning. 

On the Sth, we moved to Brandy Station, and after a few days we 
moved into the woods close by, and occupied a lot of huts that had lately 
been constructed by the rebels, to be used as winter quarters, but they 
had now fallen back beyond the river Rapidan. We remained in this 
camp for a few weeks, when we were once more on the move, to take part 
in what is called the "Mine Run Campaign." 

On the morning of November 26, we moved out of camp, and in the 
evening crossed the Rapidan at Jacobs' Ford, without interruption by the 
enemy. The advance was resumed next morning, and about 4 p. m. our 
division was hurried to the front to relieve the Third Division which had 
become engaged with Johnson's Division of Ewell's Corps. We got into 
a brisk little fight in which the Fifty -seventh had seven men wounded. 
This action occurred at Locust Grove. It appears that our corps com- 
mander. General French, got on the wrong road, and instead of getting 
between the corps of Hill and Ewell, who were miles apart, we ran against 
Ewell, and that brought on the engagement. 

The enemy retreated during the night, and the next morning their 
army was concentrated, which our movements the day before were intended 
to prevent. On the 28th, we started again and after marching all day 
in the rain we came up with the enemy, who were occupying a strong 
position along the banks of Mine Run. The next day we laid in a field 
in support of a battery, and at night were ordered on picket. The weather 
had grown very cold, and as no fires were allowed we were nearly frozen. 

After several days spent in manoeuvring, it was decided that the 
enemy's position was too strong to be successfully attacked, therefore a 
retreat was ordered. On the night of December 1, during a severe snow 
storm, we moved to the rear, and recrossed the Rapidan at Culpeper Mine 
Ford, about daylight on the 2d. About 9 o'clock the march to the rear 
was resumed, the Fifty-seventh and Sixty- third Regiments acting as 
guard to our wagon train. Having run out of rations we were very hungry, 
but we managed to procure something to eat before night. 

The next day we reached our old camp and as we found our huts all in 
good condition, we soon had them roofed with our- shelter tents, and were 
once more comfortably housed. 

For some weeks after the Mine Run expedition the question of re-en- 
listiug formed the chief topic of conversation among the men of the Fifty- 
.sevc-nth. The AVar Department has issued General Order 191, which al- 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 'MVA 

lowed a bounty of ^00, and a furlough of thirty days to each man who re- 
enlisted. Where three-fourths of the men present in any regiment re- 
enlisted, the regiment was allowed to go in a body to the place of organiza- 
tion, and from thence the men could go to their homes on furlough. 

On the 24th of December, the regiment was formed in a hollow square 
in front of headquarters, and tlu'u briefly addressed by Chaplain McAdam, 
on the propriety of re-enlisting. At the conclusion of the Chaplain's re- 
marks, Colonel Sides requested those who were willing to re-enlist to step 
three paces to the front. Over three-fourths of the men stepped forward, 
and after giving three cheers for the Union, were dismissed. 

Then for several days the officers and first sergeants were busily making 
out muster rolls, furloughs, and re-enlistment papers, etc. 

Among the men the furlough was the all absorbing theme. It is safe 
to say that a bounty of $1,000 without the furlough would have secured 
but a small portion of the men. But the assurance of being allowed to 
spend thirty days at home, was the great inducement to re-enlisting. 

The following named officers resigned or were honorably discharged during 
the year 1863: 

Major Simonton, Major Strohecker (resigned as Captain), Assistant- 
Surgeon Leet ; Captain Gillespie and Lieutenant Collomore, Company B; 
Captain Ebermau, Company E; Captain Maxwell, Captain Clark and Lieu- 
tenant Cameron, Company F; Lieutenant Edmiston, Company H. 

Promotions. 

Lieutenant-Colonel Sides to Colonel; Captain Neeper to Major; Second 
Lieutenant Hinds to First Lieutenant and Sergeant Green to Second Lieu- 
tenant, Company A. Sergeant Burns to Second Lieutenant Company B. 
First Lieutenant Hill to Captain, Sergeant Major McCartney to First 
Lieutenant and Sergeant Houser to Second Lieutenant Company C. First 
Lieutenant Rice of Company A, to Captain Company E. Color Bearer 
Williams to First Lieutenant and to Captain Company E. Second Lieu- 
tenant Mitchell to First Lieutenant and Sergeant Park to Second Lieu- 
tenant Company E. Second Lieutenant Nelson to First Lieutenant and 
to Captain, Sergeant Ruger to First Lieutenant, and Sergeant Cameron 
to Second Lieutenant Company F. First Lieutenant Darling to Captain, 
Sergeant Shaw to First Lieutenant and Sergeant Gore to Second Lieutenant 
Company H. First Lieutenant Bumpus to Captain and Sergeant Bowers 
to First Lieutenant Company I. 

January 8, 1864, was the time appointed for the regiment to leave for 
the north, and long before daylight the men were up and getting ready 
for their departure. About 7 a. m., we boarded the cars at Brandy Sta- 
tion and were soon under way for Washington, where we remained for a 
day and a night and then started for Harrisburg, Pa. Here we deposited 
our arms in the arsenal, and then the men departed by various routes for 
their homes. Before we left Brandy Station, each man who re enlisted 
had received the pay due him; the old bounty of $100, one month's pay 
in advance, and the first instalment ($50) of the new bounty. Therefore 
the men were well fixed financially, to enjoy what is known as the "Veteran 
Furlough." 



3Gi Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 

When the men had been at home for some time many of their former 
companions and friends were eager to enlist and return with our boys to 
the army. On account of our success in obtaining recruits the furlough 
of the men was extended. When we left the front the regiment numbered 
barely 200 enlisted men. After an absence of about forty-five days it re- 
turned with at least 500 men in its ranks. 

Our old flag, which had been torn by the bullets of many battles, was 
left at riarrisburg when we came home ; and on our return to the front 
we received a new one from the hands of Governor Curtin. On the 25th 
of February, we rejoined the brigade near Culpeper, Va., and on the 27th, 
we went with the brigade on a reconnaissance in the direction of Madison 
Court House. We were gone two days during which time nothing of im- 
portance occurred. 

General Grant having been appointed Lieutenant-General and placed in 
command of all our armies, made his headquarters with the Army ol: the 
Potomac some time in March, 1864. 

About the 16th of the same month, that army was reorganized. The 
First and Third Army Corps were disbanded and the divisions assigned 
to other corps. The First and Second Divisions of the Third Corps (the 
old divisions of Kearny and Hooker) were assigned to the Second T'orps 
and were commanded by Generals Birney and Mott respectively. General 
Hancock commanded the Corps. Our division was now designated the 
Third Division of the Second Corps. 

Our brigade (now the Second) was commanded by General Alexander 
Hays, who was formerly Colonel of the Sixty-third Pennsylvania Volun- 
teers . 

Our Third division was assigned to the Sixth Corps. The men having 
a great pride in their former organizations, and proud of the badge which 
designated them, were allowed to wear the badge of the old Corps to which 
they had been attached. 

The great campaign of 1864 began soon after midnight on the 3d of 
May. The Second Corps with a strong force of cavalry moved out and 
about daylight crossed the Rapidan river at Ely's Ford. On the night of 
the 4th, we bivouacked on the old Chancellorsville battlefield on the ground 
where Ve had fought one year and a. day before. 

On the morning of the 5th, we moved down the plank road tov/ards 
Fredericksburg, then turned to the right and took a road leading south- 
westerly towards Todd's Tavern, near which we halted at noon. About 
2 p. m., we renewed our march, passing over the Brock Road, and soon 
after formed line in the woods on the left of the road. Here we were 
moved about from place to place for some time, and finally moved back 
into the road, and then faced to the right and ordered forward in double- 
quick time, until we reached the crossing of the Orange Plank road. When 
the left of the regiment had crossed the road, we were faced to the left 
and advanced in line of battle through the dense woods known as the 
Wilderness. Brisk firing w^as going on in our front and we had not gone 
far when we met the enemy. The left of the Fifty-seventh rested on the 
plank road and on the opposite side of the road was the Seventeenth 
Maine. Our line was quite close to the enemy, but the densitj' of the 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 865 

underbrush made it almost impossible to see them, so taking direct aim was 
out of the question. Never before were such volleys of musketry heard 
as those which rolled through that gloomy wilderness on May 5, 1864 

The old regiment fouglit nobly, meeting with fearful loss, but they stood 
their ground until relieved in the evening, and then went back to the 
Brock Road. The next morning we moved out beyond the position where 
we had fought the evening before". We soon came against the enemy, 
drove him back nearly a mile, but they were soon re-enforced and then 
it was our turn to fall back. We had been fighting the troops of A. P. 
Hill's corps and had them about whipped, when Longstreet came on the 
field with his fresh corps. After some grand bushwhacking, our line. fell 
back to the breastworks along the Brock Road. 

The casualties in the Fifty-seventh (which were principally incurred 
on the Sth), were four officers wounded; enlisted men, twenty-two killed, 
and one hundred and twenty-four wounded and three missing. Colonel 
►Sides was badly wounded in this battle and did not again return to the 
regiment for duty. We also had to mourn the loss of that brave soldier 
and hero. General Alexander Hays, who fell at the head of the brigade 
on the evening of May 5. 

At about the same hour on May 7, the two armies began to move on 
parallel roads toward Spotsylvania. The regiment now commanded by 
Captain A. H. Nelson of Company K, had a slight brush with the enemy 
at Ny river on May 8. 

At Spotsylvania on May 12, Biruey's and Barlow's divisions formed the 
first line in Hancock's great charge on the enemy's works, when we cap- 
tured from thirty, to forty guns and several thousand prisoners. 

From May 11 to May 18, the casualties in the Fifty-seventh were one 
officer killed and wounded; enlisted men., six killed, seventeen wounded and 
three missing. Lieutenant Green of Company A, was killed May 12, Lieu- 
tenant Bowers of Company I, died May 22, and Captain Williams of Com- 
pany E, May 28, of wounds received in action. 

In a charge at the battle of North Anna river, the regiment had one 
man killed and three ofiicers wounded. At Totopotomoy river on May 31, 
and at Cold Harbor on June 3, the regiment was engaged losing in each 
action, one man wounded and three missing. 

On June 3; the colors of the Fifty-seventh was furled around the staff, 
which was struck in the breastworks, when it was struck by a piece of 
shell and cut in two. On June 12, our army left Cold Harbor and started 
for Petersburg, our Corps crossing the James river at Wilcox's wharf on 
June 14. From June 16 to 18, the regiment was in several charges which 
were made on the enemy's works at Petersburg; losing Adjutant Clark M. 
Lyons, and four enlisted men killed, and twelve men wounded; Lieutenant 
Henry M. Adams, while standing on our works, was killed by a rebel 
sharpshooter, June 15. 

Major Neeper, who had been captured at Gettysburg, had been ex- 
changed, and promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel, returned to the regiment 
about this time and assumed command. 

In an engagement on June 22, the Fifty-seventh had one officer and four 



366 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

enlisted men wounded; Lieutenant Jamos F. Ruger and nine enlisted men 
were captured. 

The regiment was also under fire at Deep Bottom on July 23, and during 
the "Burnside Mine" affair on July 30. 

During a second expedition to Deep Bottom August 12 to 18, the Fifty- 
seventh lost one officer (Captain Lyons) and fifteen men wounded and four 
missing. In the fight at Poplar Grove, October 2, three men were wound 'd. 

Our next engagement was on the Boydton Plant Road on October 27. 
Our division (now commanded by General Mott) and Egan's division of 
the same corps, had moved to the left with the cavalry, to attemj't to 
capture the South Side railroad. While these two divisions were in a 
large field surrounded by woods, near Burgess' Tavern, waiting for Gen- 
end Warren's (Fifth) Corps to join us on the right, the enemy discovered 
the j,'ap between the two corps, through which Mahone's rebel division 
charged, and came suddenly upon us. For a short time there was con- 
siderable confusion, but order was soon restored, and the enemy driven 
back, leaving with us many of their men as prisoners. This affair is gen- 
erally known as the "Bull Pen Fight." Our effort to surprise the enemy 
had failed, so we moved back to camp during the night. 

On December 9, an expedition under General Warren, consisting of his 
own Corps, Mott's Division of the Second Corps, and a brigade of cavalry, 
started out for the purpose of further destroying the Weldon railroad . 

We struck the railroad near Jarratt's Station, and effectually de- 
stroyed it for twenty miles, to a point near the North Carolina line. A 
very disagreeable feature of this expedition was the snow storm through 
which we marched back to our old camp near Petersburg. Several huiidred 
recruits, substitutes and drafted men joined the regiment during the autumn 
months of 1S64. 

The term of service of a number of officers and men expired in the nsonth 
of November, 1864, for which reason they were honorably discharged and 
mustered out. 

The following changes occurred among the officers during the .\ear. 
Those killed or died have already been mentioned. 

Colonel Sides discharged on account of wounds November 28. The fol- 
lowing were discharged on account of expiration of term in the month of 
November; Lieutenant-Colonel W. B. Neeper, Quartermaster Israel Gar- 
rettson. Captain Hill and Lieutenant McCartney of Company C, Captain 
H. H. Nelson, Company F and A. H. Nelson, Company K. 

Surgeon Lyman was mustered out September 16, to accept the Lieuten- 
ant-Colonelcy of the Two hundred and third Pennsylvania Volunteers ; 
while serving with that regiment, he was killed at Fort Fisher, N. C, 
January 1.5, 1865. Captain J. R. Lyons discharged for wounds; Captain 
Darling and Lieutenant J. M. Robison for physical disability. 

In the month of January, 1865, the Fifty-seventh and Eighty-fourth 
Pennsylvania Volunteers were consolidated, the Fiftyseventh retaining 
its numerical designation. Since September 25, 1862, the Fifty-seventh had 
•consisted of but eight companies. By special Order No. 8, War Depart- 
ment, January 6, 1865, the Fifty-seventh was consolidated into six com- 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 367 

panics. Companies A and E wei-e broken up iiufl the men distri' uted 
witli the remaining six companies so as to equalize them in strengtli. 

By the same order the Eighty-fourth was consolidated into a batt.ilion 
of four companies, and these were then united with the Fifty-seventh, 
forming a regiment of ten companies, averaging fifty men present to each 
company. 

The Eighty-fourth had a splendid record. Its first fighting was at 
Winchester, Va., March 23, 1862, where it lost many gallant officers and 
men. Since August of the same year it had been connected with the Army 
of the Potomac, where it nobly sustained its old reputation. 

The consolidation made it necessary to change the letters of som.e of 
the companies of the old Fifty-seventh although the organization of the 
companies whose letters were changed was not disturbed. 

Per Special Order, No. 4, Headquarters Fifty-seventh Pennsylvania 
Veteran Volunteers, January 16, 1805, the following alterations in the 
lettering of the companies of the old Fifty-seventh was ordered: 

Company H, to be designated Company A; Company I, to be designated 
Company D; Company K, to be designated Company E; Companies B, C 
and F, to retain their letters. 

The companies of that part which comprised the old Fifty-fourth were 
lettered G, H, I and K. Lieutenant-Colonel Bumpus who commanded the 
regiment from November, 1864, until the consolidation, was mustered out 
as a supernumerary, as were also the non-commissioned, officers of the dis- 
banded companies. 

For about two months after consolidation the regiment was commanded 
by INIajor Bryan. Colonel Zinn, who was absent on account of wounds, 
returned and took command on March 18. About the same time Lieuten- 
ant-Colonel Perkins, who had been serving on General Mott's staff as 
Captain, returned for duty with the regiment 

On February 5, another move was made beyond Hatcher's Run for the 
purpose of extending our lines, and if a favorable opportunity offered, of 
taking the coveted South Side railroad. We moved by the Vaughan road, 
and having crossed the run threw up a line of works. Late in the after- 
noon the regiment (expecting Company E, which was on picket duty on 
another part of the line) had a brisk fight with the enemy, in which two 
of our men were wounded. We were out on the expedition until the 10th 
and as usual were caught in a snow storm. 

Nothing of importance occurred on our part of the line until March 25. 
Early on that morning the enemy tried to break through our lines at 
Fort Stedman some miles to our right. A few hours later the picket line 
of our brigade was ordered to advance. We had not gone far when the 
enemy's pickets opened on us. Several of the Fifty-seventh were wounded, 
among whom was Lieutenant R. I. Campbell who was hit on the hand. 
The line was ordered back again to the entrenched position in the rear, 
where it remained until relieved at 9 a. m. 

About 3 p. m. the whole division was ordered to the front where we 
threw up a line of works near the house of Mrs. Watkins. About dark the 
enemy raade.a heavy attack, but we had the strongest force on the ground, 



'>ns Pennsylvania at Getiyshurg. 

iind but few of them got back to their works. The Fifty-seventh captured 
one hundred and sixteen prisoners, among which were six officers The 
regiment had five men wounded, one of Company E, mortally. 

On the morning of March 29, was inaugurated what proved to be the 
last campaign of the Army of the Potomac. On that morning we moved 
about three miles to the left, and began to throw up a line of works. The 
cavalry and the Fifth Corps, under General Sheridan, and the Second 
Corps under General Humphreys, were operating on this flank. For sev- 
eral days there were more or less fighting, but our brigade had not become 
seriously engaged. 

On the evening of April 1, Sheridan gained his great victory at Five 
Forks, some four miles to our left. 

On the same night a large detail of the Fifty-seventh was sent on picket 
on an entrenched line v/hich ran across the field where occurred the "Bull 
Pen" fight on the 27th of October previous. This line was hotly shelled 
by the enemy on the morning of April 2, during which time several of our 
men were wounded. 

Far off on our right the splendid charges of the Sixth and Ninth Corps 
had made the fall of Petersburg a certainty. 

About 9 a. m. our division started for Petersburg via the Boydton Plank 
road . Arriving near the city we moved about from one point to another 
until late in the afternoon, when we were formed in line a few rods from 
the house that had been the headquarters of the rebel General IMahonc. 
Here while we were constructing a temporary line of works, we were sub- 
jected to a severe shelling which wounded several of our men. 

During the following night the enemy evacuated Petersburg and re- 
treated westward; our army following on parallel roads, and also pressing 
their rear. 

On the afternoon of April 6, at Sailor's Creek, our division and Miles" 
division had a brisk fight with the rear guard of the enemy which resulted 
in our capturing a wagon train of about two hundred and fifty wagons, 
and also the teams belonging to the same. In the wagons were many 
trunks containing officers' clothing, and many were packed with feminine 
apparel. They were appropriated by the men; and we had quite a mas- 
querade around our camp-fires that night. In this engagement Lieutenant- 
Colonel Perkins and some of our men were wounded. 

On the 7th, we again encountered the enemy, near High Bridge or Cum- 
berland Church. In front of the Fifty-seventh, the enemy held a strong 
position along a high bridge within cannon shot of our position. We suffered 
soms from their artillery fire but did not attack. Part of our corps on our 
right attacked and turned their position, causing them to retreat once more. 

On the 8th, the regiment acted as flankers to the main column, marching 
in this manner for about six miles. 

Rumors were flying about that Grant and Lee were corresponding rela- 
tive to the surrender of the rebel army, causing our men to be in high 
spirits. 

About noon on April 9, when we were resting near Appomattox Court 
House, we received the welcome tidings that the old enemy of the Army 
of the Potomac had surrendered. 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshunj. 369 

During' its active service which began in April, 1862, and end* d in 
April, 1865, the Fifty-seventh had been engaged iu twenty-seven battles, 
and eight minor engagements or skirmishes. Its casualties durini; the 
sams period were: officers, eleven killed, thirty-two wounded and five cap 
tured ; enlisted men, ninety-four killed, four hundred and seventy-two 
wounded and one hundred and ninety-four captured, making a total of 
eight hundred and eight. 

The total enlistments in the regiment were seventeen hundred and eleven, 
but in this number are included about two hundred men who re-enlisted 
in December, 1863, which are counted as new enlistments, and about two 
hundred and fifty men who joined the regiment in May, 186r), after its 
fighting was over. 

Of the one hundred and ninety-four men captured, it is safe to say 
that at least two-thirds died in southern prisons. It has been impossible 
to ascertain the number who died of disease in field and general hospitals, 
but as a rule the number who died of disease is greater than the number 
killed in battle. 

After the surrender of Lee, the i-egiment marched to Burkeville, Va.. and 
from thence to Richmond, Va. From here it moved by land to Alexandria, 
Va. On May 23, it took part in the Grand Review of the Army of the 
Potomac at Washington, D. C. 

On the afternoon of June 29, near Bailey's Cross Roads, Va., it was 
mustered out of service. The next morning it proceeded to Harrisburg, 
Ph., where the officers and men received their final pay and discharges, 
on July 6, 1865. 



DEDICATION OF ISIONUMENT 

61ST REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

July 24, 1888 
ADDRESS OF COLONEL ROBERT L. ORR 

COMRADES AND FRIENDS:— Twenty-five years ago, after the his- 
toric march of the Sixth Corps, of forty miles in seventeen hours 
without an organized halt, our regiment went into line near this place'. 
On the night of the 2d or the morning of the 3d, we were moved to this 
spot, on the extreme right of the infantry of the Army of the Potomac. 
Our skirmishers were deployed at once and went to work to dislodge the 
enemy's sharpshooters concealed in yonder house. It was on this field, 
now known as one of the greatest battlefields in the world — Gettysburg, 
famous in story and song — that a quarter of a century ago, the two 
great armies of this nation, engaged in a war for which history has no 



*Oi-gau;zeci at Pitlsburgb, Septombor 7, 1S61, to serve three years. On the expiration of 

its teim of service the original members (except veterans) were mustered out and the 

organization composed of veterans and recruits retained in service until June 28, 1865, 
■when it was mustered out. 



1570 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

Ijart'llel, ;i war which shook this country to its very center, met face to 
face, and challenged one another to battle. Lee flushed with recent vic- 
tory and restini; on the prestige which continued praise and devotion for 
military triumph, at home and abroad, had given him, resolved to enter 
Pennsylvania, and strike the last effectual blow at the Union Army. This 
army under Meade, blood-stained and worn blunt and strong by campaigns 
which had been both disastrous and glorious, here gathered itself with grim 
resolution, though v/earied by hardship, march and engagement, to await 
the onslaught. And these two mighty armies closed in a contest, the re- 
sult of Avhich was to prove that the North was not ready to surrender the 
bulwarks which our fathers had built around our liberties. And here, 
on this very spot, and all around here^ within the sound of my voice, 
stood the gallant Sixty-first, to the end, enfeebled by forced mai"ches, but 
not discouraged; broken by severe losses, but not dismayed; covered with 
dust and smoke and blood, but still sturdy and brave and true. We had 
known no defeat on the plains of Virginia, our banner was the banner of 
victory, and it was here unfurled to the breeze when cannonading shook 
the earth and strong men went down to death. Where danger was, the 
veteran Sixty-first went and our tattered and stained colors never trailed 
in the dust. And here, where our brave comrades fought and fell, where 
they surrendered to death, but not to rebellion, where they laid their 
lives on their country's alter, here where they strove that "Liberty and 
the Union" might live, here, where to day sleep under the blue vault of 
Heaven, the loyal sons of scores of battles ; we, the surviving members of the 
Sixty first Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, dedicate this monument to 
their memories. It is right that we should raise this shaft and inscribe upon 
it is enduring characters the praise which history offers to brave warriors, 
for by doing this we honor the memories of the men who as volunteers, 
left fireside, home and position, to give their services to the preservation 
and prosperity of the Union. And they were daring men, who had the 
courage to meet armed treason on many a field and challenge it to mortal 
combat. The dead of our gallant Sixty-first sleep to-day on every field 
where the Army of the Potomac and the Sixth Corps fought. It won 
official recognition and high praise from every officer who commanded them 
in battle, and no other where than here at Gettysburg, did the men of our 
regiment exhibit more endurance and courage, or seal with braver blood 
their fidelity to the cause for which they fought. When Lee, bent upon 
the total annihilation of the Army of the Potomac, suddenly transferred 
the seat of war across Mason and Dixon's line to the north, and pene- 
trated the peaceful valleys of southern Pennsylvania, when he turned back 
the page of histoi-y, and read on if the record of successes and defeats of 
two eventful years of bloody strife, when he saw that the advantages 
of war were only gained by exercising superior strategy, by summoning 
courage and by constant and incessant attrition of opposing forces, when 
he beheld the flower of the Confederacy massed in his presence, still 
strong in the confidence of its own ability to wrest victory from defeat, 
and when with the mathematical precision which characterizes the evolu- 
tions of a trained soldier, he weighed the responsibilities with which the 
South had entrusted him and how these responsibilities would fare did 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshiinj. 371 

\\^ wrestle with the Army of the Potomac, ou the hills of Gettysburg, 
and when he finally determined to hurl himself like a thunderbolt at an 
army waiting on its native soil, the entire world stood aghast, and wa^'ched 
these two mighty contending forces, concentrating themselves for the final 
contest. And when after three days of smoke, din, carnage, blood and 
death, the terrors of war had written themselves iu the clouds, and the 
sun, long concealed behind the black curtain of gloom, burst forth through 
the midst of the battle, and the roar of the last sullen wave of strife had 
died beyond the hill tops, Lee, the proud champion of the Confederacy, 
his army helpless and bleeding, hastened away from a field of irretrievable 
disaster, looked back to behold the scene, had nothing but dismay and ruin 
to his hope and cause and country, saw high up in the heavens of mid- 
summer, wreathed upon a scroll of immaculate white, "Victory for the 
Union," and yet higher upon the very last and highest scroll of fleecy 
whiteness "Liberty and Freedom Forever." 



ADDRESS OF SERGEANT A, T. BREWER. 

WB MEET to-day in a treble capacity. As citizens of our great repub- 
lic; now imperial iu power as well as extent. As representatives 
of the historic Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, so abounding in 
the unsearchable riches of patriotism, and as survivors of a conflict to 
maintain the one and shield the other. 

The American nation, twenty-five years ago, spontaneously and ofiicially, 
recognized this place as one destined to an honored immortality. Hither 
came the illustrious Chief Magistrate, and, inspired by the association, 
uttered exalted sentiments, with a splendor of language unequaled in 
oratory. These blood stained hills and valleys, battle-scarred rocks and 
trees, were sacredly dedicated to the patriotic valor displayed by the dead 
and the living. Here nature, rugged, grand, diversified, as it is, has yet 
been enriched by what art could do in marble, bronze, granite and land- 
scape decoration, and the sixty-five million people of our restored Union 
have charged themselves with the perpetual and reverent care of this 
consecrated ground. And outside of our own country, the world over, for 
•all time, the fame of Gettysburg will live. The human sympathy in great 
struggles for liberty, which has preserved ISIarathon twenty-three centuries, 
AviU secure this field to the remotest age. 

But as representatives of the sovereign state on whose soil the conflict 
occurred, we have an interest more personal than historic. All other states 
concede to Pennsylvania a peculiar relation to Gettysburg. It was her ter- 
ritory which was moistened by so much precious blood. It was the only 
battle fought on free soil during the war, and the only great battle ever 
fought within the bounds of the Keystone state. It was the only meeting 
of hostile armies within her limits since Washington, in 1777, led his 
heroic band against the English at Gcrmantown. On the part of Penu- 



372 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

sylviiui:\, it was a couflict to protect, from immediate capture, her proud 
capital, sitting like a queen on the rippling Susquehanna, and her renowned 
metropolis, where Independence was first proclaimed. It was natural 
that Pennsylvania, with peerless colonial history, and acknowledged pre- 
eminence in the Revolution, should resist with deathless valor, any foe 
that dared cross her border. And it was a piece of good fortune for Penn- 
sylvania, attributable to a favoring Providence, that the National .4-rmy 
at Gettysburg was composed so larg'ely of her troops, affording them the 
privilege of defending their own State. Her regiments of infantry, cavalry 
and artillery were here to the number of nearly one hundred, and they 
were on all parts of the field, from the magnificent resistance of Buford's 
cavalry and the First Corps, July 1, to the repulse of Pickett, July 3. 
That they did their whole duty is abundantly attested by the long roll 
of dead and wounded, and the effective work accomplished. The most dis- 
tiguished officer killed, the much loved and lamented Major-General John 
F. Reynolds, was from Pennsylvania. Right grandly did he defend his 
native state in the early and discouraging part of the battle. Then came 
the incomparable Hancock and the Commander-in-Chief General Meade, 
both from the same state. 

The people of Pennsj'lvaniu, therefore, have reasons for their determina- 
tion to exhibit to the world the high esteem in which they hold the ser- 
vices of their own forces on this memorable field. While fully approving 
all the nation has done, the state adds yet other honors to perpetuate the 
deeds of her own sons. The monument to-day dedicated, is the gift of 
the State, under a law passed no longer ago than June 15, 1887, twenty four 
years after the battle. How significant was the passage of this law by 
the men then composing the legislature. Some were born after the buttle. 
Many others were school boys when the thundering cannonade at Gettys- 
burg was heard over half the State. The pure stream of patriotism flowing 
out from here has spread its benign influence all over the State and 
opened the heart and the purse of a new generation. 

Yet we sustain another and still more intimate relation to this battle- 
field. To us this atmosphere is perfumed with recollections of July 2 and 
3, 1863, but how changed the scene. The same sun, indeed, shines in the 
heavens, some of the same trees spread their green foliage over us, the 
same brook rolls its gentle flood at our feet, the same rocks, hills, valleys, 
ravines, greet our vision; the same Baltimore pike stretches its white 
length before us, and the same Taney towji and Emmitsburg roads wind 
through the same fertile farms and cragged glens. Still, the scene is 
different. Instead of the deafening roar and din of a mighty conflict, all 
is peace and good will. But our minds and hearts are stirred no less than 
they were twenty-five years ago. Indescribable emotions agitate and thrill 
us as we look abroad over this field to-day, and especially as we behold the 
spot where we now are. 

There is, however, one feeling which can be expressed. We are thankful 
to realize that no sacrifice was made in vain. Not alone did the cause 
triumph for which we contended, but the Nation, taking new life, has had 
unparalleled growth and prosperity. From something over thirty million, it 
has increased to sixty-five million of happy, free people, devoted to the 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 373 

Union and teaching their children to love liberty and revere the memory 
of those who saved the Nation in the great civil war. 

Returning in 1865 to peaceful pursuits with our fellow-countrymen, most 
of us still young, we have waged the battle of life for five-sixths of a 
generation, and yet our average age now is not over fifty years. At the same 
time we are as old as the majority of those who served as volunteers in 
the late war. How young then, must have been the lives here laid on 
the altar of liberty and national unity a quarter of a century ago? While 
the loss was great, can any one say the gain was not commensurate? 
Dare any one say the sacrifice was too great, beholding at the same time 
the splendid republic, washed by two oceans, bound together by iron rails, 
with teeming millions of contented people, knowing but one flag, and 
that the stars and stripes? It is true, the noble young men who fell here 
at the average age of twenty-two, gave great promise of distinguished use- 
fulness in all walks of life ; but without the government, they and their 
comrades fought to save, what would life be worth? No one would want 
to live amidst the dissevered fragments of the Union, and no one could 
then look even upon a picture of the old flag without pangs of remorse and 
Ijitter humiliation . 

We are not here, therefore, to bewail the fallen as those who fell in vain, 
nor to bemoan the sacrifices of those who yet live, but rather to honor 
the services of both on this and other fields of the war. 

As the organization, whose monument is to-day dedicated, belonged to 
the Army of the Potomac, and shared its experience for four years, we will 
contemplate for a while that celebrated army. 

Considering its history from first to last, no army of which we have 
any record, can be compared to it. It exhibited a peculiarity never before 
witnessed in a vast army, and that was the indestructible personality and 
spirit of the soldiers. As a whole, in its formative period at least, it was 
a political foot-ball and victim of party intrigue, adversely criticised by the 
press, sneered at by the other armies, and covertly censured by government 
oSicials. Yet the soldiers, with unsurpassed intelligence, keeping constantly 
in mind the object for which they enlisted, bore themselves like senators, 
preserving a dignity and self-respect which no disaster could affect. No 
army of men in the world's history ever suffered so many defeats and dis- 
appointments without losing its martial spirit and becoming worthle?? as 
an organization. In ancient times one defeat in a general battle prac- 
tically ended an army, leaving the survivors utterly discouraged. The 
famous Roman armies sent against Hannibal were each ruined in a single 
battle, though only a small proportion were killed. Each of the three 
Austrian armies sent against Napoleon in Italy, were destroyed in a single 
battle, yet not over ten per cent, were killed or wounded. So it has ever 
been with armies in all countries. The military prestige is all gone after 
<me or two defeats. This being true, what will the historian of the future 
say of the Army of the Potomac? Look at its battles— Bull Run, Ball's 
Bluff, march against the wooden guns at Manassas Junction in the spring 
of 1862; Yorktown, a month in the mud; Williamsburg, an obviously un- 
necessary sacrifice; Fair Oaks, a great battle, only to be followed by a 
month in the Chickahominy swamps, and the seven days retreat engage- 

25 



374 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

ments euding with Malvern Hill. Second Bull Run, Chantilly ; Antietam, 
a bloody, but indecisive victory, with nothing to encourage soldiers; Fred- 
ericksburg,, a sacrifice of fourteen thousand men in a movement known to 
be foolish by half the private soldiers in the army ; Chancellorsville and 
second Fredericksburg, costing over sixteen thousand more, with no ad- 
vantage. 

Up to July 1, 1863, the Army of the Potomac, in its thirteen principal en- 
gagements, had lost 92,494 men in battle, of whom 10,524 were killed, being 
over seventeen per cent, of all men killed in the entire war. This is not 
counting those who fell in minor affairs and skirmishes, nor those who died 
of disease, and leaves out entirely the losses su.stained in the ill-starred cam- 
paign of General Pope, and the fruitless Shenandoah movements. Behold 
then an army that had fought thirteen pitched battles, losing in the aggre- 
gate as many effective men in actual contest as it ever had at any one t'mie, 
marched and countermarched through three states, always facing the enemy, 
never achieving any substantial success ; and yet its ardor unimpaired ! 
This army was now called to meet the best and largest force ever mustered 
by the Confederacy, not in the enemy's country, but far in the interior of 
Pennsylvania. But this is not all. The rebels were flushed with a recent 
victory, and two years' experience had convinced that army it was uncon- 
querable. Nor can we stop here. The concentrated ambition and hate of 
a century was in the rebel army. It was determined to go to Harrisburg, 
Baltimore, cut off Washington and dictate terms of peace from the steps of 
Independence Hall at Philadelphia. It had boundless confidence in its 
leaders and in the efficiency of its organization. 

On the contrary, the Army of the Potomac scarcely knew who its com- 
mander was, for no order had been read to the troops relieving Hooker, or 
appointing Meade. McDowell, McClellan, Burnside, Hooker, had all failed 
and no one expected anything great from Meade. If the troops had been 
consulted they would have appointed Hancock, the very man whom Meade 
himself considered the great general of the army, and selected to direct the 
battle. According to all teaching of military history, the Army of the Po- 
tomac was doomed to certain defeat at Gettysburg. The chances appeared 
to be a hundred to one against it. If anything was needed to make its de- 
feat beyond a peradventure, it was furnished by the government in the 
change of commanders, three days before the battle, when the armies were 
actively feeling for each other. The removal half severed the hair suspend- 
ing the sword of Damocles. But history will have to reconstruct its theories. 
It will be compelled to record that the Army of the Potomac presented feat- 
ures hitherto unheard of in martial organization. The historian will find 
the explanation in the character of tlje private soldiers and subordinate offi- 
cers of the line. These men had not taken up arms for nothing, nor had 
they been following a great, dazzling leader, as willing instruments in his 
hands. They had the conviction which moves the patriot as well as the 
dauntless courage of the tried soldier. The desperate forces of treason 
surged and dashed against them in vain. They stood their ground, and the 
proud foe retreated never again to set foot on free soil. 

It is not possible to give a history of the battle, but justice to the Army of 
the Potomac requires a few statements. On the first day our forces were 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 375 

greatly out-numbpred by the euomy. Then Reynolds, the commander, was 
killed in the forenoon and by the time Doubleday, who succeeded him, got 
his forces well in hand, and was doing good work as mortal man ever did 
under like difficulties, he, in turn, was succeeded by Howard, in virtue of 
seniority. Howard, with inadequate knowledge of the situation, made some 
movements, but he was soon relieved by Hancock, who came on the field, 
representing General ]\[eade. In the face of so many changes, the marvel 
is that the army was not completely crushed. 

On the second day the enemy had the advantage in numbers and the en- 
thusiasm arising from victory, as thousands of Union prisoners had been cap- 
tured and marched to the rear through the Confederate lines. 

By a mistake, the Third Corps, under Sickles, was placed in an advanced 
and untenable position at the famous Peach Orchard, which the enemy at- 
tacked, carried, and was only prevented from driving the left of the army off 
the field by the timely arrival of the Sixth Corps. During the third day the 
battle raged, at different points, all day except a short time prior to the Pireat 
charge, say from 12 m. to 1 p. m. Then ensued the most stupendous can- 
nonnade ever heard in the new world ; a roar which shook the earth, and was 
heard nearly two hundred miles to the west and northwest. After the can- 
nonade, when the enemy supposed the Union lines were shattered, came the 
fierce assault on our left center, by about 20,000 of the best troops in the Con- 
federate army. 

The charge, though conducted with uncommon bravery, was met by the 
dauntless blue lines and repulsed with such terrible loss to the enemy that 
he gave up and abandoned the field. This great charge, its repulse and the 
fighting which then occurred, showed the very acme of human courage on 
both sides. Intrepidity could do no more. The division of Pickett, leading 
the assault, was practically annihilated. 

In the entire battle the Ai-my of the Potomac exhibited a steadiness in 
movements, firmness in maintaining positions, and a gallantry in actual 
contact with the enemy, never surpassed by an army, and this is the tes- 
timony of all American as well as foreign writers on the subject. If that 
army had fought no other battle, its fame would have been secure. But 
after Gettysburg it fought thirty-eight battles, losing on the field no less than 
280,656, of whom 22,691 were killed. 

According to official statistical record, the Army of the Potomac from first 
to last, in its fifty-one battles, lost 32,268 killed, 256,830 wounded and 69,597 
prisoners, a grand total of 367,295. By disease it lost, on the usual estim.ate, 
at least 62,000 more, who actually died in the service, making the total num- 
ber of deaths 94,000, and aggregate loss, so far as shown by accessible 
records, of 429,295. But to this number should be added those who were dis- 
charged for disability, arising from disease contracted in the service. Of 
such there must have been enough to swell the total loss to half a million, 
not counting losses in small affairs and skirmishes. One other fact should 
be mentioned, not as a complaint, but as an incident, relating to the Army of 
the Potomac. 

During the war. Congress, beginning with December 24, 1861, and ending 
with March 3, 1865, passed fifteen joint resolutions, expressing thanks of the 
nation to various officers and armies, and providing special honors for them. 



376 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

Yet the Army of the Potomac was never mentioned except once, January 28, 
1864, when the three names, selected for honor, were not the men entitled 
thereto, in the estimation of that army, and therefore, the resolution did 
more harm than good. 

Here then was an example of pure patriotism. An army, battling with 
the flower of the Confederacy, defending the national capital, suffering un- 
precedented losses, which are unavailing through various causes, ignored by 
Congress, whose sessions were held within the sound of its cannon, and 
whose laws derived all their effect from its power, still maintaining the con- 
flict until the last enemy of the republic was killed or captured.' 

The fame of the Army of the Potomac must constantly increase as its ser- 
vices are better understood, as was said of illustratious heroes of old: "'Far 
reaching, bright shining, through ether, to heaven, ascending." 

The Army of the Potomac, like other Union and Confederate armies, was 
divided into corps. But so many changes occurred, from time to time, in the 
troops that only a few corps, as such, acquired special honor on account of 
fighting qualities. One of the few, having a special and distinct fame, was 
the "old Sixth," as it was affectionately called. It was organized under an 
order of President Lincoln, dated July 22, 1862, and remained with few 
changes until June 28, 1865. Included in that corps, from first to last, was 
the Sixty-first Pennsylvania, and what is said of the corps will apply also to 
the regiment. The Sixth Corps, besides taking a most conspicuous part in 
every movement of the Army of the Potomac, had some striking and dra- 
matic experiences of its own. It was the famous Vermont brigade of the 
Sixth Corps that was sent to New York to quell the riots in 1863, and it was 
the commander of that fighting brigade who, when complaint was made by 
the New York authorities that his men fired bullets instead of blank cart- 
ridges at riot prisoners, on attempting to escape, replied, "My men never 
learned how to fire blank cartridges." On September 16, 1863, at Culpeper 
Court House, the Sixty-first Pennsylvania turned out and presented arms to 
the Vermonters on their return from New York. This shows the generous 
spirit always a feature of the Sixth Corps. It was the Sixth Corps alone 
that fought and won the second battle of Fredericksburg, while the re- 
mainder of the army was at Chancel! orsville ; that fought the battle of Salem 
Church, losing in both battles over twenty per cent, of its entire force. 

It was the Second Division, Sixth Corps, that fought the brilliant and 
bloody battle at Fort Stevens, July 12, 1864, under the eye of President Lin- 
coln and his cabinet, in the very suburbs of Washington. In this battle the 
Sixty-first Pennsylvania was one of the six regiments making the successful 
charge on Early's position, and its commander. Colonel Crosby, lost an arm. 
In fact every regiment in that charge lost its commander. The Sixth Corps 
then went to the Shenandoah Valley and won fadeless renown with Sheri- 
dan. At the battle of Cedar Creek, while Sheridan was making his immor- 
tal ride from Winchester, the Sixth Corps kept up the fight, swinging around 
like a gate on its hinges to meet the enemy, after the left flank of the army 
had been turned. It was on the unconquerable lines of the Sixth Corps, then 
reduced to a mere handful of men, that Sheridan rallied his shattered army, 
and it was a charge from the Sixth Corps and Custer's Cavalry that started 
the enemy on the run and inaugurated the movements ending in the crushing 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 377 

defeat of the rebel army. General Sheridan, after the surrender of the 
French army, at Metz, being on the ground, paid a high compliment to the 
Sixth Corps by remarking to Prince Frederick Charles, the German com- 
mander, that he (Sheridan )could have cut his way out of Metz with one divi- 
sion of the Sixth Corps. The French had 172.000 men. It was reserved for 
the Sixth Corps, under the immediate direction of General Grant, to make 
the final assault at Petersburg and break the rebel lines on April 2, 3865, 
starting Lee's army for Appomattox. It was also the Second Division and 
Third Brigade which led that charge, and the Sixty -first Pennsylvania was in 
the center and hottest part of the battle, losing its colonel. The Sixth Corps 
did most of the fighting at Sailor's Creek, the last hard battle of the war. 
After the surrender of Lee the Sixth Corps were immediately started to join 
Sherman and aid in finishing Johnston's army, but only reached Danville 
before Johnston capitulated. 

The Sixth Corps was not present at the grand revie-vC^ in May, 1865, at 
Washington, but had a separate review by the President afterwards, and 
ended its existence June 28, 1865. Stevens, the historian of the Sixth Corps, 
says "It was the grandest corps that ever faced a foe." 

The regiment, whose services we are to-day commemorating, fitly repre- 
sents the State of Pennsylvania, the Sixth Corps and the Army of the Po- 
tomac. More than any other regiment it presents the true type and average 
character of the Keystone soldiers, who volunteered for three years in 1861. 
This is true because it was raised in different parts of the State, and included 
all classes in its ranks. Company A was recruited in the northern part of 
Indiana county, on the skirts of the AUeghenies, from hardy farmers and 
bold lumbermen of that locality. Five companies, B, C, E, F and K, were 
raised in and about Pittsburg, from the enterprising manufacturers, mer- 
chants, mechanics, iron woi'kers, coal operators, boatmen and other brave 
men of the Union-loving region. Company D was raised in Luzerne county, 
the neighborhood of hard coal, where the beautiful valley of Wyoming recalls 
sad and bloody massacres by English and Indians a century ago. The com- 
pany was composed of intelligent, stout men of all trades and callings. The 
other three companies, G, H and I, were raised in Philadelphia; the patriotic 
city of brotherly love, of womanly sympathy, of chivalrous generosity, whose 
motto of "hot coffee free for volunteers" was known and read of all men. 
The pride of every Pennsylvanian, the inspiration of all friends of liberty, 
equality and Union, the home of unpretentious refinement and culture, the 
abode and patron of art, the seat of unostentatious wealth and diversified 
industry, the paradise for every wounded soldier. These three companies 
were in all things worthy of the city they represented. They furnished the 
regiment three colonels and two lieutenant-colonels in less than three years' 
time. 

The regiment, as a whole, combined every element of military strength It 
could build bridges, lay out and make roads, plan and construct forts as well 
as make long marches and fight battles by day and night. 

The Sixty-first was fortunate in having for its first colonel a veteran of the 
Mexican war, who had also been in the three months' service. A patriot, an 
orator, a model soldier was Oliver H. Rippey, from Pittsburg, whose com 



378 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

mission was issued twenty-seven years ago to-day. His command, the Sixty- 
first, was soon organized and in September, 1861, moved into Virginia near 
Alexandria, joining the Army of the Potomac, whose fortunes it shared, 
without interruption, to the end of the war. 

If it is true that the Army of the Potomac deserves the place in hir-story 
which has been indicated, and that the Sixth Corps in the amount and vai-iety 
of its services, ranlvs so high in that army, then, indeed, is the record of the 
Sixty-first Pennsylvania, a proud one to contemplate. Only one regiment in 
the Sixth Corps had more men liilled in action during the war than the Sixty- 
first, and only seven regiments in the five hundred or more in the Army of the 
Potomac, had more men killed in any one action. But the Sixty-first has a 
broader reputation than the army or the corps with which it served. Lieu- 
tenant-Colonel Wm. F. Fox has been examining the record of all Union regi- 
ments and gives the result in an interesting article in the May Century , 1888. 
His tables show that the Sixty-first Pennsylvania, in the number of officers 
killed in action, stands first in the entire Federal army, also that it stands 
eleventh in the number killed in any one action in the Union army, and fif- 
teenth in the total number killed during the war. 

It is worthy of remark that the fourteen other regiments having greater 
total losses than the Sixty-first, every one, belonged to the Army of the Po- 
tomac. It is also worthy of note that forty out of the forty-five regiments 
sustaining the heaviest losses in killed during the war, belonge-d to the Army 
of the Potomac. It is worthy of still further mention that out of the forty- 
five honored regiments, eleven belong to Pennsylvania. 

The aggregate loss in the Sixty-first Pennsylvania Volunteers is frightful 
for any one regiment. It had nineteen officers and two hundred and thirty- 
five men killed in battle, twenty-seven officers and six hundred and ten men 
wounded. One officer and one hundred and seven men died of disease, mak- 
ing total killed, wounded and died of disease nine hundred and ninety-nine. 
In the whole Federal army, on an average, two died of disease for every one 
killed, but in the Sixty-first nearly an average of three were killed to one 
dying of disease. 

It is not possible to give a history of the Sixty-first in less than a volume, 
nor is it necessary in order to appreciate the character of the regiment. By 
experienced military men, three test.s are applied to troops. Firmness in re- 
maining where they are placed, gallantry in assault and steadiness when 
surprised. Let these tests be applied to the Sixty-first, in three actions, each 
furnishing a fair trial of its firmness, gallantry and steadiness. 

At Fair Oaks, May 31, 1862, a large Confederate army attacked the 
Fourth Corps of the Army of the Potomac with a view of capturing or de- 
stroying it before General McClellan could move reinforcements across the 
swollen Chickahominy. The Sixty-first, after standing in line for hours, 
was led forward into the woods, by General Couch in person, to meet the 
enemy, advancing in strong force. Directly the rebels were met marching by 
the flank. When the columns had approached near each other the rebels 
went "right by file into line," and the Sixty-first filed right and moved its 
entire length parallel to the Confederate line, and faced to the front, the 
lines being about two hundred feet apart. Then at the word of command 
from the colonel the regiment opened a point blank fire. At the same instant 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 379 

the euemy opened and a deadly striisgle began. The Sixty-first had no sup- 
port on its right, and the Union troops on the left were soon driven back, 
leaving one regiment to contend against a line of battle out-flanking it on 
either side. But the Sixty-first did not stop to calculate. It poured in a 
continuous fire. The rebel line was reinforced time and again and finally 
worked around on the right and left, opening an enfilading fire, and yet the 
Sixty-first maintained its ground. 

The bi'ave Colonel Rippey was killed. Lieutenant-Colonel Spear and 
Major Smith were wounded. Still the men kept up the fight until an order 
was passed along the lines to fall back. When the order was given, and not 
till then, the uninjured men started back. They found the rebels on their 
right and left closing rapidly the small gap left for escape. Disregarding 
all demands for surrender they rushed past and through the rebel lines reach- 
ing the second Union position in small groups. 

On moving back the Sixty-first left on its line ninety-one killed, including 
its colonel, and over two hundred wounded, including Lieutenant-Colonel 
Spear and Major Smith, both being captured. During this engagement the 
men of the Sixty-first fired thirty-seven rounds apiece. Toward the close 
hot muskets burned the soldiers' hands into blisters. After retiring, rem- 
nants of the Sixty-first without field officers, part under command of Captain 
Jacob Creps of Company A, and part at another point under Captain after- 
wards Colonel Robert L. Orr, joined the second and aided in the final 
repulse of the Confederate army. No prisoners were taken from the Sixty- 
first except the wounded who were unable to leave the field. 

Passing over a whole year of hard fighting and marching, another engage- 
ment will be noticed, illustrating gallantry. On Sunday morning. May 3, 
1863, as beautiful a morning as ever smiled on humanity, the Sixty-first 
headed a charge on Marye's Heights, at Fredericksburg, across the canal 
bridge marching by the flank in column of fours. It was exactly like Na- 
poleon's famous charge across Lodi bridge. The Confederate forts were on 
the heights in full view a quarter of a mile away, with lines of rifle pits in 
front. As soon as the regiment started over the bridge double quick, the 
rebels ran cannon out into the road and fired directly into the head of the 
column, the grape sweeping through the ranks for the whole length of the 
Sixty-first, and even into the troops behind it. At the same time artillery 
opened from the forts, raining grape and canister like hail upon the advanc- 
ing force, and the rifle pits in front and on both flanks wei-e a sheet of 
flame. Just as the line, left in front, reached the Confederate side of the 
bridge Colonel Spear, while gallantly leading the column was killed. Others, 
familiar with the movements then to be made, were also killed or disabled, 
and no one remained to give any command how to deploy'the line or what to 
do. It being impossible to move further by the flank, some of the men went 
to the right, others to the left, and in a few seconds the supporting regiments 
came forward and the works were carried. In the assault all the confidence 
of the commanding general shown in selecting the Sixty-first to lead the 
column was justified, and no charge during the war was better suited to test 
the gallantry of a regiment. 

After the terrible experiences of tlie Wilderness and night marches follow- 
ing, on another Sunday, May 8, 1864, the Sixty-first stood in line of battle 



380 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

near the far-famed "bloody angle," at Spotsylvania Court House. About 
sundown the regiment was ordered forward through the woods, but cau- 
tioned to be careful, as four lines of Union troops were ahead. Procc^dins 
slowly so as to keep the alignment, the Sixty-first descended into a gloomy 
and thickly-wooded ravine, crossed a small brook and began moving up on 
the other side. Twilight was rapidly deepening into darkness when suddenly 
a rebel line of battle appeared, close in front, as if dropped from the clouds. 
A Confederate officer seized the flag of the Sixty-first and demanded in'^tant 
surrender ; the color sergeant held on while the bold rebel was caught by offi- 
cers of the Sixty-first and made a prisoner. Sergeant Brady of Company 
A was shot dead by a rebel, who in turn was shot and bayoneted by Jno. E. 
Allison of Company A. A battle was then commenced so quickly that offi- 
cers had no time to give commands. Every man in the regiment, as if pro- 
pelled by machinery, went straight for the rebels in front of him. Officers 
used their swords and revolvers, while the men, after firing one shot, took 
their bayonets or used their guns as clubs, dispersing the enemy as police 
scatter a mob. When the fight ended it was pitch dark, and no Union troops 
to be found on the right or left. The Sixty-first put out its pickets and lay 
on its arms until daylight. About midnight Colonel Smith sent Adjutant 
Wilson to find brigade headquarters. The Adjutant proceeded a short dis- 
tance to the rear and then toward the right. While groping his way through 
the dark woods a sentinel challenged him, and almost immediately fired in- 
stantly killing the Adjutant. Other thrilling incidents occurred, but the 
Sixty-first came out the next morning with little loss and with undimished 
intrepidity. 

That day. May 9, 1864, the regiment with the army and the Nation was 
called upon to mourn the loss of a great and beloved soldier, Major-General 
John Sedgwick, commander of the Sixth Corps, who was killed on the front 
line of his corps. 

These three severe tests demonstrate that the Sixty-first Pennsylvania Vol- 
unteers had all the high qualities which distinguished the most famou? sol- 
diers of the world, the firmness of Alexander's phalanx, the steadiness of 
Caesar's legion and the gallantry of Napoleon's battalion. 

It only remains to desci'ibe the part taken in this battle by the Sixty -first 
Pennsylvania Volunteers. The official reports are meagre. Many maps and 
diagrams show the whole Sixth Corps massed in rear of Little Round Top 
marked "reserve," a position the corps never occupied for a moment. 

In order to a full appreciation of the services of the Sixty-first here, it is es- 
sential to go back twenty-four hours On the evening of July 1, the sixth 
Corps was at Manchester, Maryland, thirty-eight miles away, to the south- 
east, on the extreme right of the army. After dark the corps was put in mo- 
tion for Gettysburg. But over fifteen miles of trains headed toward Balti- 
more blocked the way, and had to be turned in the opposite direction. All 
night long the men were on their feet marching a little at a time and then 
waiting while the obstructions were being removed. By daylight, July 2, 
not over half a dozen miles had been made, yet with a gun, forty rounds of 
cartridge and other necessary equipage to carry or hold, the experience had 
been enough to weary the toughest veterans. The sun was well up over the 



Pennsylvania at Oettyshurg. 381 

trees before the road was cleared. After stopping teu minutes for breakfast 
began the great march, which has so justly distinguished the Sixth Corps. 

The battle was raging thirty-four miles away. The enemy was concen- 
trated and the absorbing question was whether the Sixth Corps could ar- 
rive in time to be of service. Could the soldiers, or even the horses, after 
moving all night, march thirty-four miles more along a dusty road, under a 
scorching July sun, carrying everything that must accompany an army to 
make it effective, and if the march could possibly be made would the corps 
be in a condition to render any aid after reaching the field. These were 
questions agitating the commander of the army, and the brave and sturdy 
leader of the Sixth Corps. 

Most of the march was to be along the old Baltimore pike, paved with 
broken white limestone, which long use had ground into powder. The road 
ran in a straight direction, up hill and down, through a beautiful and fertile 
country; "sweet fields arrayed in living green" were beheld on every hand. 
The sun, warm at the beginning, grew hotter and more piercing every hour 
and his rays gathered fresh force as they were reflected from the hard road. 
Toward noon the radiating heat could be observed in waves, like colorless 
clouds, floating from the earth and mingling with the fine dust created by 
the moving column. 

The Sixth Corps then consisted of thirty-six regiments of infantry, eight 
batteries of artillery, and two companies of cavalry, numbering in all .nbout 
18,000 men. When stretched along a single road, exclusive of trains, except 
those carrying ammunition, the corps was over ten miles long, and was in it- 
self a larger army than was ever marshaled on American soil prior to 1861. 
This corps was then the largest of the seven in the Army of the Potomac, 
and was equipped to fight a great battle alone, as it had done two months 
before at Fredericksburg and Salem Church, while the balance of the army 
was at Chancellorsville. During July 2, while this famous march was in 
progress, the men knew nothing of any battle having been fought on the day 
before, but each believed something of vast moment was at hand in which 
the Sixth Corps would probably take an independent part. Yet but little 
was said as the blue line moved forward, bearing the Greek cross along with 
the stars and stripes. No halt, no dinner, no command, no indication of any 
enemy, no roar of battle, as the wind carried the soimd in other directions. 

From seven o'clock in the morning, until three o'clock in the afternoon, the 
march was one steady swing and tramp, with no stimulation or event of any 
kind to awaken special enthusiasm. But at that time, miles ahead on the 
side of the mountain which had long been in sight, shells were seen bursting 
high in the air, with red angry flashes. Soon smoke was observed curling 
along above the trees and floating away to the north, and yet up to this time 
not a cannon had been heard. Now the rapid step was yet quickened, the 
gun was not so heavy, the cartridge box pulled down less than before, the 
end was at hand. On and on moved the column. Directly the familiar roar 
of battle began to be heard indistinctly, then louder and more continuous. 
Ambulances came in long white procession, and wounded men stren.ming 
back with other unmistakable indications of a bloody conflict. Still the Sixth 
Corps pressed on, stopping for nothing until the rear of Little Round Top 
was reached. Here was a halt, the first in ten hours. 



882 Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 

At this moment the roar of musketry was awful beyond description, and 
the whole valley trembled with the thunder of artillery. Little Round Top 
was blazing, smoking, quaking like an active volcano. The arrival of the 
Sixth Corps so soon was a surprise to both friend and foe. An incident is 
related by Charles Carlton Coffin, presenting a striking scene at General 
Meade's headquarters as the Sixth Corps came in sight. The movement of 
the column was so fast that it was believed to be cavalry. The author says: 
"I Avas at Meade's headquarters; the roar of battle was louder and grew 
nearer ; Hill was threatening the center ; a cloud of dust could be seen down 
the Baltimore Pike. Had Stuart suddenly gained our rear? There were 
anxious countenances around the cottage where the flag of the commander- 
in-chief was flying. Officers gazed with their field glasses. 'It is not cav- 
alry, but infantry,' said one, 'there is the flag, it is the Sixth Corps. ' We 
could see the advancing bayonets gleaming in the sunlight. Faces which 
a moment before were grave became cheerful. It was an inspiring .sight. 
The corps crossed Rock Creek, filed into the field, threw themselves upon the 
ground, tossed aside their knapsacks, and wiped t)ie sweat from their sun- 
burnt cheeks." 

The author, after describing some other stirring movements then in pro- 
gress, continues: "At the same time an officer rode down to the Sixth Corps. 
I saw the tired and weary men rise from the ground and fall into line. They 
moved off upon the run towards Weed's Hill (Little Round Top), which 
was all aflame. The dark lines of the Sixth Corps became lost to sight as 
they moved into the woods crowning the hill. There were quicker volleys, 
a lighting up of the sky by sudden flashes, followed by a cheer. Longstreet 
gave up the struggle and fell back." 

Stevens, the Sixth Corps historian, describes the same movement, as fol- 
lows: "On receiving orders assigning our position, and the information that 
our presence was actually needed, the three divisions were moved simultan- 
eously at double-quick, in parallel lines, and arrived on the line of battle 
at the critical moment, just as the rebels, flushed with victory, were pene- 
trating our lines to the right of Round Top. Owing to the direction in 
which we approached, little more was necessary than to halt the lines and 
face to the right to bring three lines of battle facing the enemy's advance, 
and to close the gap made by the rebel onslaught." "The volley from our 
front line," says General Wright, "was perhaps the heaviest I have ever 
heard, and it had the effect not only of checking the triumphant advance, 
but of throwing his ranks into the utmost confusion . " 

The movement of the Sixth Corps on July 2, 1863, are such as to chal- 
lenge the admiration of mankind. Its majestic tread on the battlefield, at 
the supreme moment, after such a memorable march, will resound through 
the ages. It was the realization, the embodiment of the sublimest figure of 
inspired' poetry, "terrible as an army with banners," became in fact "a 
terrible army with banners," the Greek cross floating over it, and the 
Greek fire like that which could not be extinguished at Salamis, burning 
within it. 

The Sixth Corps, after aiding in the repidse at Little Round Top, was sep- 
arated and used to patch up weak places in the lines, and was moved from 
place to place, in brigades, regiments and even battalions, during the re- 



Pennsylraiiia at Gettyshunj. 383 

mainder of the fight. For a hmg time, during July 3, oue brigade of the 
Sixth Corps, the Vermouters, hold the extreme left of the army at Round 
Top, and another, the Third, the extreme right at Wolfs Hill. 

In the Third brigade, Second division. Sixth Corps, was the Sixty-first 
Pennsylvania, vv^hose movements will now be described. The regiment was 
then under command of Major George W. Dawson. It occupied four differ- 
ent places in the linos. First, in the evening of July 2, to the right of Round 
Top, with the corps in its first movement against and repulse of Longstreet; 
second, later the same evening, after stopping awhile in Hancock's line on 
Cemetery Ridge, took position in the woods to the right of Culp's Hill; third, 
at Wnlf's Hill, on the extreme right of the army connecting with the cav- 
alry. Hero four companies, under Captain Crops, were on the picket line 
all day on the 3d, coiitiinuilly onsaaod with the enemy, the balance of the 
regiment being in tho front liuo on the northerly slope of Wolfs Hill; fourth, 
about noon, and during the lull which preceded the great cannonade, that 
part of the regiment not on the picket line moved to Cemetery Ridge and 
took position in front of Meade's headquarters, where it remained until 
about six o'clock. Then after the repulse of Pickett, and termination of the 
battle, the Sixty-first marched back again to Wolfs Hill and remained there 
until the morning of July 5. 

By this description it will be seen that the Sixty-first marched four to six 
miles after reaching the battle-field on July 2 which, added to its long 
march, made nearly forty miles for the day. Besides, a part of the regi- 
ment remained on duty all night and began fighting at break of day, July 3. 
It is not possible or necessary to give further details, though the speaker 
cannot close without referring to the scene on Cemetery Ridge during the 
artillery firing and the assault which followed. For a few minutes after 
the Sixty-first formed its line all- was silent. Then a rebel signal gun was 
fired to the north on Seminary Hill. Instantly tho whole lino of rebel guns, 
one hundred and thirty-eight in number, joined in the cannonade. All the 
guns northeast, north and northwest concentrated their fire on Cemetery 
Ridge. Every size and form of missile known to gunnery crashed, shrieked, 
whirled, moaned and whistled along the ridge, splintering trees, bounding 
from rocks, smashing wagons, disabling guns, tearing through the house at 
]Meade's headquarters and plowing up the ground in all directions. It is 
said thoy came six in a socnud. Tho roar at first was deafening, but became 
awful when over a hundred Union guns replied firing from all the hills on 
tho line. Tho earth shook and it seemed from tho sulphureous smoke and 
tlamo and thunder that the last day had arrived. At this moment the re- 
serve artillery of the Union army, eighty guns, came into position along 
Cemetery Ridge, making the most sublime and exciting spectacle ever wit- 
nessed by the speaker. Soon the firing of cannon ceased on the enemy's 
side, and on came their bold charge accompanied with wild yells extending 
a mile or more along their serried ranks. The moment was thrilling. It 



384 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

was the high water mark of the RebeUion and made an epoch in himian 
destiny. The Union lines were immovable, the assailants were crushed. 

From that moment the Nation was saved and consecrated anew for com- 
ing ages. Americans the next day adopted the motto: 

"All honor to the heroic living, 
All glory to the gallant dead." 

The monument this day dedicated speaks to the living and for the <^ead. 
When the living shall have joined their comrades in the deathless world, the 
memorial will proclaim to descendants of those who formed the Sixty first 
Pennsylvania Volunteers, the imperishable honor here and elswhere achieved 
by that regiment, and when its monument here and other memorials on 
this most renowned battlefield of the ages, shall have crumbled to atoms, 
every lover of liberty will yet crown with unfading laurels and burnish with 
immortal luster the memory of the gallant and dauntless men who won free- 
dom's battle at Gettysburg. , 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

62^ REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

September 11, 1889 
ADDRESS OF CAPTAIN WM. J. PATTERSON 

COMRADES: — Gettysburg takes distinguished rank as one of the great 
battles in the history of warfare. The vital interests that hung in the 
balance, the gallantry of the opposing armies, the number of men en- 
gaged and the abilities of the leaders, all combined to make this field one 
of the grandest that was ever baptized with the blood of valor. To under- 
stand its importance to the Union cause we must remember that the darkest 
hour of the war was upon us. The Union arms had signally failed almost 
under the shadow of the nation's capitol. The disaster of Fredericksburg 
had been folloAved by the defeat of Chancellorsville. The administration 
was discouraged and the people of the North disheartened. The martial 
spirit of the young men of the loyal states seemed to be exhausted and the 
unpopular method of the draft had to be enforced to fill up our ranks. The 
clouds of adversity cast a gloom of despondency over the north which 
threatened to eclipse the light of patriotism in our fair land. The South was 
correspondingly elated. The Army of Northern Virginia was the hope and 
pride of secession. The supreme opportunity of the struggling cause was 
at hand . The leaders were filled with renewed confidence ; "change the war 
from a defensive to an aggressive one," they exclaimed. "Make the North 
feel the crushing effects of its iron heel on her own soil, and the flag of truce 
would soon take the place of the relentless ensigns of battle, and the olive 
branch of peace would eventually float over a triumphant confederacy." 



*Organize(l at Pittsl)iirgh, August 31, 1S61, to serve three years. The original members 
(except veterans) were mustered out of service July 13, 1S64, and the veterans and 
recruits transferred to the 155th Penna. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 385 

The leaders fondly hoped, too, if invasion proved successful, foreign inter- 
vention would step in to their assistance and victory at last crown their ef- 
forts. The vision was not an unreasonable one and the plans were well 
laid. General Lee, at the head of the flower of the South, the veterans of 
the Aimy of Northern Virginia, was entrusted with this weighty movement. 
He promptly turned his columns north and crossed the Potomac into JNIary- 
land. His advance divisions penetrated Pennsylvania as far as Wrights- 
viJle, on the Susquehanna river. But the leaders of the South had yet much 
to learn of northern patriotism and northern bravery. That gallant and 
spirited old Army of the Potomac was to cover itself with new glory. The 
eyes of the whole country were upon it. While it had been defeated and 
baffled and mismanaged, it never lacked patriotism and bravery of the high- 
est type. It always had its face to the foe. From Yorktown to Appomat- 
tox it never failed to give blow for blow. No army in the world was better 
organized, better disciplined, or better officered with skilful leaders. Its 
morale could not be excelled. Competent authority pronounced it the 
youngest and most intelligent body of men ever gathered together in the 
military service. The average age of its members at the close of the war 
was under twenty-ffve years. Many who are now serving on the bench, in 
the pulpit and in the legislative halls of the state and nation, marched in its 
ranks as private soldiers. General Lee's movements were closely followed. 
Three days before the battle General Meade assumed command of the Army 
of the Potomac. The Union forces pushed forward into Pennsylvania, and 
early on the morning of July 1, the enemy's skirmishers were encountered at 
Marsh Creek, near the Chambersburg pike, on which General Hill's corps 
was moving east. A severe battle was fought, in which the Union troops 
were overpowered and driven back at all points in considerable disorder. 
About 4 o'clock General Hancock arrived on the field and directed the 
movements for the final stand that was made on East Cemetery Hill. On 
the report of General Hancock, General Meade decided to order up the re- 
mainder of the army for a general battle at Gettysburg. Orders were sent 
out hurrying forward all the troops. The Fifth Corps, after a long and 
wearisome march, reached Hanover about 5 o'clock in the evening. At this 
point news of the battle reached us, and we were asked to press forward to 
the assistance of our comrades at the front. The march was continued and 
after midnight, the Second brigade turned into a grove, about five mUes from 
the battlefield for a short rest. An incident occurred whUe on this night 
march that illustrated the strong attachment and abiding confidence the 
troops still had for their commander. Word was passed along the line 
that General McClellan was again in command and awaited the arrival of 
his old battalions at Gettysburg. This announcement caused unbounded 
enthusiasm, and to that extent contributed the victory that followed. With 
the first flush of day the brigade was again in motion, and reached the bat- 
tlefield about 7 o'clock. The division was massed in a field not far from 
Wolf's Hill, on the right of our line. We then moved some distance to the 
left, crossed Rock Creek to the front, and massed in the orchard just above 
the stone bridge on the Baltimore pike. There was nothing to indicate the 
terrible contest soon to shake the earth. Everything was quiet untU the 



386 Pennsylvania at Getty shvrg. 

middle of the afternoon. But it was the calm before a storm. About four 
o'clock the battle opened with unabated fury on the left. The lines of the 
Third Corps, General Sickles commanding, extended from the Cordori house 
on the right along the Emmitsburg pike to the peach orchard, then bending 
back were continued to the base of Round Top. The engagement com- 
menced with a determined effort to turn the Union left at Devil's Den. 
Hood's and McLaw's division advanced to the attack, and the action 
rapidly extended along the line until the entire position of the Third Corps 
was furiously assailed. Re-inforcements were called for. General Barnes' 
division of the Fifth Corps was the first to respond, and moved over the 
field, left in front, in the direction of the woods near where General Zook's 
monument now stands. When the head of the column came across the 
Taueytown road, General Warren met it and by permission of General 
Barnes detached the Third brigades and conducted it to Little Round Top, 
where it had a terrific struggle with a portion of Hood's division for the 
mastery. In this conflict the gallant Vincent fell, but his brigade held the 
ground. The rest of the division proceeded to the "Loop," Colonel Sweit- 
zer's brigade in advance. The three regiments formed in line of battle, the 
Thirty-second Massachusetts on the left in the position indicated by its 
tent-shaped monument, the Sixty-second in the center and the Fourth Michi- 
gan on the right. (The Ninth Massachusetts was absent on picket duty.) 
The First brigade formed in the woods further to the right. The enemy was 
discovered advancing over the low ground on our left to attack the Thirty- 
second Massachusetts, the other two regiments were wheeled partially to the 
left and rear to strengthen that position, thus forming three separate lines 
facing the same way and supporting each other. The firing became rapid 
and severe, but the brigade maintained its position. Many of our officers 
and men were struck down. Major Wm. G. Lowry fell, instantly killed. In 
his death the service lost as brave a soldier and as faithful an officer as any 
that fell that day in defense of this country. The First brigade fell back 
and no other troops taking their place on the right, left our brigade in a 
critical condition. We were directed to fall back, which was done deliber- 
ately and in good order, the regiments halting and firing until well into the 
woods. We then moved by the left flank, struck the wheatfiekl, and passed 
along its border to the peach orchard road where we took position parallel 
to it, facing the field. The First division of the Second Corps had moved 
forward and was engaged in these woods on our front. General Zook had 
just been carried from the field mortally wounded. While we moved along 
the edge of the woods before reaching the peach orchard road, several of 
our men were struck by stray shots, and when in line on that road the com- 
mand was ordered to lie down to avoid the flying bullets. Lieutenant Scott 
McDowell was killed and several more wounded while the regiment occu- 
pied that position. After remaining on the clay road about twenty minutes. 
General Calwell requested Colonel Sweitzer to take the brigade to his as- 
sistance in the woods beyond. Before starting a straggling line came back 
through our ranks. We then moved forward across the wheatfiekl in splen- 
did style. When this point was reached the brigade became hotly engaged 
with the enemy in front, the Sixth-second in the position indicated by this 
monument and these markers, the Fourth Michigan on the right and the 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 387 

Thirty-socoud ^Massachusetts on tho left. About the time we moved for- 
ward across this field Graham's division had been driven from the peach 
orchard, and Humphrey's division being threatened in reverse, changed 
front and moved further to the rear. These operations made a large open- 
ing in the line, through which the Confederates hastened to enter with a 
strong force. We had not been long in this advanced position when shots 
were noticed striking our lines from the woods to our right and rear. Gen- 
eral Wofford's brigade of Georgia troops held the peach orchard road and 
the elevation at Zook's monument and was firing into our command. Colonel 
Boyd INIcKeen, in his report of the P"'irst brigade, First division. Second 
Corps, says: "They were relieved by a brigade (Sweitzer's) of Barnes' divi- 
sion. Fifth Corps. Passing the relieving brigade by file they were enfiladed 
by a galling fire," thus showing that the enemy made his appearance on our 
flank and rear almost immediately after we moved from the peach orchard 
road. The Fourth ^Michigan and Sixty-second changed front to the right to 
meet our enemies in that direction. The brigade was now nearly sur- 
rounded and in a very perilous position. Attacked in front, right and rear 
its chances of extricating itself were anything but good. General Barnes 
exclaimed, "There goes the Second brigade, we may as well bid it good-by." 
But it was not the first time the Second brigade had been in critical posi- 
tions, and by good judgment and indomitable pluck come out all right. The 
command was terribly exposed in the open field, while our enemies had the 
cover of the woods. The men's blood was up and they fought with des- 
perate resolution. The brigade fell back diagonally across the field, fighting 
every inch of the way, the command frequently halting and firing as it re- 
tired. The Fourth Michigan and Sixty-second became mixed up with the 
enemy and many hand to hand conflicts ensued. Colonel Jeffords of the 
Fourth Michigan, was run through with a bayonet while gallantly defending 
the colors of his regiment. When we were engaged at the stone fence a 
large squad of prisoners had been taken and sent to the rear, and when the 
regiment became entangled with the enemy the opposing forces could not 
at times fire into each other for the unarmed captives between the lines. 
When we emerged from the toils of impending capture, broken and cut to 
pieces. General Crawford led Colonel McCandless' brigade of Pennsylvania 
Reserves in a sweeping charge, which again cleared the wheatfield. Our 
brigade took position in support of a battery on the line just to the right of 
Little Round Top extension, where it remained until the army moved in pur- 
suit of Lee. The Sixty-second lost heavily during the afternoon of the 2d, 
particularly in its pa.ssage across the wheatfield. The story of its casualties 
is chiseled on this marble shaft. It marched to the "Loop" with twenty-six 
oflicers and four hundred enlisted men in line and emerged from the wheat- 
field with twelve oflicers and two hundred and thirty-nine men. Four ofli- 
cers and twenty-four men had been killed, ten oflicers and ninety-seven men 
wounded and forty men taken prisoners, a loss ratio of fifty-four per cent, 
of the officers and forty per cent, of the men. Two of the wounded officers 
died in a few days afterward, and it is safe to say that not less than fifteen 
men died from the effects of their wounds. The figures given on this monu- 
ment are taken from the official records of the War Department, and show 
a percentage of casualties greater than the famous Light brigade suffered in 



388 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

its charge at Balaklava. Lord Cardigan took into action six hundred and 
seventy-three officers and men, and lost one hundred and thirteen killed and 
one hundred and thirty-four wounded, total two hundred and forty-seven, or 
36 7-10 per cent. Of those who passed through the fight unhurt General 
Sweitzer had several close calls. His horse was shot under him, and the 
crown of his hat was laid open by a minie ball. Colonel Hall's tall form 
was conspicuous in the engagement, moving aboiit with his accustomed cool- 
ness, directing the manoeuvers of the regiment. He passed the ordeal of the 
wheat field unharmed, to meet his fate like a gallant soldier in the Wilder- 
ness. Lieutenant Seitz ran into the enemy's lines at the peach orchard 
road while trying to communicate with General Barnes. He had his horse 
shot, and barely escaped capture. But I cannot go into particulars. The 
officers and men did their whole duty, and the regiment added still another 
laurel to its wreath of heroic deeds. No point in the extensive lines of Get- 
tysburg saw fiercer or more continuous fighting than here. This field had 
been taken and retaken, the lines swaying back and forth repeatedly, during 
the progress of the contest that afternoon. It has been fitly styled the 
whirlpool of the battle. When the action opened it was covered with the 
plumage of waving grain, ready for the harvest, and when twilight gathered 
over its surface the ripening stalks were trampled into the earth and dyed 
with the blood of the blue and the gray, and when the light of the moon 
cast its gentle rays over this gory plain it revealed scores of the pale, up- 
turned faces of friends and foes, whose only heritage in the glory of the bat- 
tle was a soldiers' grave. Hundreds of papers have been written on this 
famous battle, yet the one-thousandth part has not and never will be told. 
We read of the gallant Meade, justly named the hero of Gettysburg; how 
ably he marshaled his army and guarded every point on the line, until victory 
perched on our banners . We read of the death of Reynolds ; of the wounds 
of Hancock while leading his trusty veterans against the terrible charge of 
Pickett's division. We read of Warren, who, with the intelligent and prac- 
ticed eye of a soldier, saw at a glance the importance of Little Round Top, 
and with the instinct of a chieftain promptly took steps to hold it. We read 
of scores of other brave and skilful officers who aided in driving the in- 
vincible veterans of the South, under the so-called ablest general of the age, 
from our state in hasty retreat, never again to return. While a great deal 
is due to the brains and valor of the officers, yet the glory of victory should 
not be ascribed to them alone. The part the rank and file played in the 
gi'eat drama of war is recorded and eulogized. But who among the private 
soldiers is named? Have the dead been mentioned except in numbers? 
Have the cripples been referred to except in the aggregate? Yet it was the 
rank and file that stood the shock of battle and that gave blow for blow. It 
was the columns of soldiers that charged the enemy or stood like a rock 
against fierce assaults. Does history do more with the name of the private 
soldier than bundle it up with a thousand others and call the combination 
a regiment? The only glory the rank and file have is in the honor and repu- 
tation of their own organization. The spirit of generous emulation that ran 
through all organizations in the army was the outgrowth of enlightened 
valor, and is the distinguishing characteristic of the American soldier. Every 
man took pride in his own regiment and believed it the best and bravest in 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 389 

the army. No soldier who wore the blue and was singed with the fire of 
battle would ever change his regiment for any other in the service. The 
associations and memories and friendship and hard-earned glory could not be 
transferred. Every organization has its own peculiar history, which it 
would not exchange for that of any other. This pride of organization calls 
us together to-day. We meet to honor and be honored by the name and 
fame of our gallant regiment. Among the many valiant organizations that 
participated in this battle, none can show a prouder record than the Sixty- 
second Pennsylvania Volunteers. The career of the regiment throughout its 
three years' service was continually marked with devotion to honor and 
duty. The history outlined on this monument is an eloquent tribute to its 
bravery. The list of killed and wounded shows the deadly chasms it had to 
fill. The blood of its slain is sprinkled all the way from Gettysburg to Rich- 
mond. But all who passed through this fight and through the war un- 
touched by the hand of death are not here to-day. Many have fallen in the 
march of peace that passed unharmed through the storms of battle. Among 
this number none is missed more or held in dearer remembrance than the 
brave and ever faithful colonel of the regiment, jGeneral J. B. Sweitzer. 
There is a peculiar tinge of sadness in his absence. He took a special in- 
terest in the erection of this monument. The Sixty-second was his pride; 
he gloried in its honor and reputation, and if living his voice would have led 
to-day in the enconiums of its achievements. We miss many manly faces 
from the ranks, whose patriotism and courage were not excelled by the 
highest in official stations. We miss many of the line officers, and the field 
officers are all gone except Assistant Surgeon Gardner. As Ve turn our gaze 
backward from this field, we recall the familiar form of the gallant Black, 
whose name is inseparably associated with the Sixty-second ; whose ability 
as an organizer and bravery as a commander speedily brought it to the front 
in the line of crack regiments in the service. We miss his knightly bearing 
and eloquent voice. In the lapse of a quarter of a century many have fallen 
by the way, and this remnant of a gallant organization, once full in num- 
bers and strong in youth, comes here to celebrate its share in the victory of 
Gettysburg. We came to dedicate this monument. In the name of justice, 
in the name of constitutional liberty ; in the name of chivalrous devotion to 
duty; in the name of purity in public affairs; in the name of one country, 
with but a single flag, for which the blood of this regiment was shed, we 
dedicate our monument and consign it to posterity. Coming generations 
may read from its the simple story of the devoted patriotism and unflinching 
courage of the Sixty-second Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, in the war 
for the Union. 



liO 



390 Pennsylvania at Oettys'burg. 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

6Z^ REGIMENT INEANTRY* 

September 11, 1889 
ADDRESS OF COLONEL JOHN A. DANKS 



M': 



COMRADES of the Sixty-third Regiment Peniisylvauia Volun- 
teers: — Very few people (comparatively speaking) attach as much 
importance to the battle of Gettysburg as really belongs to it. Very 
few think of it as the Calvary of American Freedom. But such it is in the 
history of the United States. 

When we think of humanity as being crushed by sin, and look for a 
remedy, we begin at the Gai'den, and find the conclusion at Calvary. When 
we think and speak of the government of England as threatened with dis- 
memberment and ruin, and look for the remedy, we find it at Waterloo. 
So, when we think and speak of oppression, class and caste in America, 
and look for the remedy, we begin at Harper's Ferry, with old John 
Brown, and find the answer in Pickett's charge at Gettysburg. So we say: 
Yov Humanity, Calvary; for England, Waterloo; for America, Gettysburg. 

What a thrilling recollection it must be to each one of us, that we formed 
an important part of the army that rescued and saved the Nation. Fur- 
thermore that we discharged a duty on this line, more than twenty-six 
years ago, that ha^ been increasing in interest and importance as the years 
go by. I had the honor to command the regiment in this battle, I there- 
fore, know whereof I speak, and deliberately say, that never did twenty 
hours witness, or one-fourth of a mile measure, more earnest devotion to the 
Union, than you rendered here on this line July 2, 1863. 

When the battle of Gettysburg was joined, the Third Corps in which 
we were serving was near Frederick, Md. : we then marched to Emmitsburg, 
Md., stacked arms and were resting, when the word came — the armies are 
fighting at Gettysburg and General Reynolds is killed — go at once to Gettys- 
burg; we started at double-quick, we came in here about 8 o'clock on the 
night of the 1st. We halted for supper just to the right of Little Round 
Top ; at about ten o'clock that night we were ordered and led here on this 
line to do picket duty; early on the morning of the 2d, the enemy being 
in front fired on the right of our line ; this continued at intervals until about 
nine. When a Maine regiment went out in front to test the strength of 
the enemy at this point, soon they and we became hotly engaged all along 
the line. But soon the enemy withdrew — four times that day did the 
enemy come out, deploy a skirmish line as though they would bring on a 
general engagement. But you met them promptly and each time they 
retired. Between four and five o'clock p. m. I was informed by the com- 
pany commanders that our ammunition was about spent and we would have 
nothing but the bayonet, should the enemy come again. This I'eport I sent 



*Orgauizeil at Pitt.shuiKli, August 1, 1S61. to serve three years. The original members 
fesoept veterans) wero mustered out September 9, 1S64, and the veterans and recruits 
transferred to the 9ath Penna. and subsequently to the 106th Penna. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 391 

by an orderly to (Jeneral D. B. Birney ; soou a regiment wearing a white 
patch came up to relieve us, and a staff officer came with instructions for 
me to take the regiment and replenish the ammunition. 

We crossed the ridgo and when on the Taneytown road I noticed our 
brigade and division headquarters flags in our front. We moved into 
our place, and remained there that night. Next morning we took our place 
in the line just to the right of Little Round Top, there we remained until 
after Pickett's charge, when we were taken at a double-quick down the 
line, and halted in front of where Pickett had been repulsed. We re- 
mained in the line there until the morning of the 5th when the army went 
in pursuit of the enemy. 

Reviewing the time and work, I am prepared to say, surely no man or 
nation could ask or expect an organization t<i do better service than you 
did at Gettysburg in 1863. 



DEDICATORY ADDRP:SS OF LIEUT. ANDREW G. WILLIAMS. 

COMRADES: — The swiftly speeding days of more than twenty six 
years have come and gone since first the Sixty-third Regiment Penn- 
sylvania Volunteers stood in the might and majesty of its loyal 
manhood in defense of this identical portion of the Union line of battle, 
and to-day we, the survivors of that gallant old regiment, have met on 
this historic field ; the field which marks the high flood-tide of rebellion ; 
the field against whose every side and flank the impetuous torrent of 
fratricidal war in all its hellish fury surged ; to be rolled back and sub- 
merged only when its ridges and its plains, its orchards and its glens, its 
rocky round tops and its devil's den had been drenched and ran red with 
the heroic blood of twenty thousand of your comrades, and not even then 
were the fierce fires of secession quenched on this field until three thou- 
sand more brave men went down to death and placed their lives, the one 
most valuable and unmeasurable offering that ever was or can be made 
by mortal man for home and country, upon the Nation's altar. 

Standing in this presence to-day we all fully realize how changed the scene. 

"No hostile armies gather now 
But autumn air around 
Breathes peace and joy where onec we fought 
Upon this very ground. 

When on this monument we gaze 
, What liallowed memories throng 

Our pause — forever it was right 
Our foes — forever wrong. 

Forever wrong; all time will point 

To Gettysburg with pride 
Here freedom triumphed and on this field 

The hopes of treason died." 

Monuments are as old as our race and all along the history of the 
dim and dusty ages of the past down to the right and joyous present man 



392 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

has been perpetuating the memory of heroic men and deeds in monumental 
pile and storied urn ind this inclination comes to the mind of our common 
humanity but as promptings from and a reflex expression of the great 
divine original Himself. God ever was and still continues to be a monu- 
ment builder. 

On this field to-day we are reminded by the many monuments, all of 
which are silently, yet eloquently, proclaiming that affection for and appre- 
ciation of heroic patriotism and patriotic heroism still survives. We have 
met again on this once bloody field, after the lapse of so many years of 
peace and prosperity to perpetuiite the memory and render our faint 
and feeble tribute of praise to the valor of Pennsylvania's soldiers and 
especially do we meet on this historic spot — the Peach Orchard — to dedi- 
cate this monument to the memory of the services of our loved and gal- 
land Sixty-third, than which there was no braver, whose long lists of 
glorious achievements have never yet been enumerated and the history 
of which when written will be the history of the Army of the Potomac. 
And yet it's true on every hand we are reminded that here the brave 
men of eighteen sister states standing elbow to elbow and side by side most 
nobly fought and fell. 

A Grecian philosopher once said "The whole earth is the sepulchre of 
illustrious men" and the Hon. Edward Everett in his matchless oration 
at the dedication of jonder national cemetery added "All time is the mil- 
lenium of their glory." 

The peaceful gathering here today of you, my comrades, but evidences 
the glorious success of your patriotic service. The Union and all that 
word implies ; flag and all the privileges and rights it represents ; country 
and all the hallowed memories and illustrious kinship we claim. All these 
must have inevitably and forever been engulfed in the whirlpool of rebel- 
lion, but for the service and sacrifice made by you bronzed and battle- 
browned veterans and your comrades. 

And now, my comrades, there remains for us who survive our fallen com- 
rades the high, the holy duty of here and now resolving that these our 
dead shall not have died in vain, but that the cause to which they yielded 
their full measure of devotion shall forever have our undying fealty. This 
ground has been consecrated by the blood and death of our comrades ; 
and this monument we i^ow most solemnly dedicate to their memory and 
in honor of your service, and in its presence with uncovered head and 
unpraised hand, we pledge our lives in eternal defense of the principles of 
right and justice, the contest for which has made this field so memorable. 
We have all reached the meridian of life and many with halting step and 
silvered locks are far down on the shady side of the mountain, indeed 
almost in the glades at its base and soon must lay us down .at "taps" and 
bid our last adieu to comrades dear and the loved land we helped to save ; 
let us see to it then that we so keep step to the music of moral heroism ; 
so touch elbow to elbow in the march of human happiness ; so stand in the 
ranks of valiant manhood, presenting a solid front against all the enemies 
of our race ; so to put on the entire armour of Christian soldiers and fight 
successfully the battles of this present life. 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg 393 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

68™ REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

July 2, 1889 
ADDREkSS of private ALFRED J. CRAIGHEAD 

COMRADES: — A quarter of a century has passed away since you and 
I marched up that road yonder, amid the echoes and passion of 
war, which have all died. Then we were soldiers in defense of this 
glorious Union, and here, upon this field, we fought, shoulder to shoulder 
together,, and upon this spot our gallant old regiment stood without flinch- 
ing, subjected to one of the most deadly onslaughts ever known, from that 
portion of the Confederate army in our front and flank. This spot marks 
the left of our regiment, the right extended to and rested north of this 
point to where you will see a flank stone marker standing. About this 
hour in the day, twenty-five years ago, we advanced from here into that 
peach orchard beyond, and formed an angle, which we have marked by 
a white marble shaft; in that orchai'd we engaged the enemy in heavy 
musketry firing. You all remember that afternoon, and out of the small 
band of us that went into that orchard few cf us came safely out, but 
you did your duty bravely while there. 

Comrades, those are deeds of the past and you are all citizens now, and 
I trust you all are as good citizens as you were soldiers. We are here 
to-day under different circumstances and have invited our friends to as- 
semble with us upon this sacred and memorial spot to participate with 
us in the ceremonies that are about to take place in commemoration of 
the event of our first appearance upon this liold years ago. Before you 
will be permitted to listen to the eloquent remarks of deeds of valor of 
this regiment from my esteemed and illustrious friends, who have kindly 
consented to come here and address you, you, comrades, have selected 
me to inform our friends why we have assembled here to-day, methinks 
I hear them say, "Who or what is this Sixty-eighth Regiment Pennsylvania 
Volunteers?" Well, I will tell you, my friends, all about this grand old 
regiment, whose oflicers, exploits and achievements, we all who fought in 
its ranks feel proud of. 

This celebrated regiment, surnamed Scott Legion, was recruited during 
the summer of 1862, in the city of Philadelphia, except Company H, 
which was recruited at and from among the Germau residents of Potts- 
town, Montgomery county, and Company I from Chester county. The 
regiment was completely organized and mustered into the United States 
service on September 2, 1862, with one thousand and forty-nine (1,019) 
officers and men. The following were the field officers of regiment: An- 
drew Hart Tippin, colonel; Anthony Hart Reynolds, lieutenant-colonel, 
and Thomas Hawksworth, major. At that time all citizens of the city 
of Philadelphia. 



*Organize(l at Philadelphia, in August and September, 1S62, to serve three years and 
was mustered out of service June 9, 1S6.5. 



394 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

Colonel Tippiu also served as major of the Twentieth Regiment Penn- 
sylvania Volunteer Infantry during the three-months' service, and had seen 
service as Lieutenant in the Eleventh United States Infantry* during the 
war with Mexico in 1846 and 1847, and fought bravely in General Scott's 
army on several bloody fields. Well, we remember the dispatch from 
headquarters that told how Lieutenant Tippin was the first man to mount 
the ramparts of the Mexican works at the battle of Molino-del-Rey, King 
Mills, to wave his sword and lead his men on to victory that so quickly 
followed; he was twice breA'eted for gallant and brave conduct in the 
battles of Coutreras, Churubusco, Molino-del-Rey and other battles of that 
campaign in Mexico. The sword carried by this gallant defender of his 
country's cause and flag during the campaign in Mexico, has been presented 
by his widow, to A. H. Tippin Camp No. 41, Sons of Veterans, of Potts- 
town, Pennsylvania, and it bears marks of battle, a portion of a bullet 
embedded in the handle which struck it when its owner sprang upon 
the walls of the fort previously mentioned. The Sons of Veterans have 
placed this weapon of this dead hero of two wars among their archives 
of relics, and they prize it as dear to them as was the sword of Bunker 
Hill to the patriots who wielded it in the historic contest of Revolutionary 
times . 

Lieutenant-Colonel Reynolds who was wounded and permanently dis- 
abled while gallantly leading us comrades upon this bloody and memor- 
able field, and since deceased, and Major Hawksworth who was kUled at 
the battle of Fredericksburg, Virginia, December 13, 1862, and Captain 
Robert E. Winslow, subsequently lieutenant-colonel, and Captain Michael 
Fulmer, subsequently major, who is with us to-day, our honored president, 
some seventy years old, who has passed the medidian of life threescore 
and ten, full of vigor and manhood, carrying the scars of battle, all saw 
service in Mexico and displayed their gallant conduct and bravery during 
that campaign. Many of the line officers and men of whom some fell 
upon this and other fields of battle in defense of their country and this 
glorious Union, were all veterans of Mexico, and also served during the 
three-months' service . 

The defeat of our arms in Pope's Campaign of Northern Virginia, con- 
cluding with Chantilly, in 1862, caused the national authorities to summons 
peremptorily troops which had been mustered. The Sixty-eighth, our regi- 
ment, with at that time lying in camp at Frankford, a suburb of the city 
of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; though above the minimum, its ranks were 
not up to the maximum standard and the men were only partially uniformed 
and equipped and not mustered into the United States service. Colonel 
Tippin at once responded promptly to the order. The regiment broke camp 
on the evening of September 1, 1862, and at once proceeded to Washington 
city where it was mustered into the United States service. The army was 
just falling back to the heights around the National Capital, the regiment 
was immediately ordered across the Potomac river and went into camp on 
Arlington Heights, there it was armed and furnished with a complete 
outfit for an active campaign, and was assigned to Robinson's Brigade, 
Stoneman's Division, Third Army Corps. Soon after the battle of An- 
tietam the regiment moved from camp and passed through Georgetown, 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 395 

proceodt'd to Poolesville, Maryland, arriving there on the 10th day of 
October, the day on which the rebel Generals Stuart and Wade Hampton 
with a large force of cavalry made their famous raid on Chambersburg, 
Pennsylvania, and a complete i-ircuit of the Union army; intelligence soon 
spread of the daring ride, and our regiment was marched rapidly to 
Conrad's Ferry, near Poolesville, Maryland, in expectation that the bold 
raiders would attempt to cross the Potomac river at that point on their 
return into Virginia, but they made for a ford considerably lower down 
the stream and passed over without opposition. After the regiment re- 
mained several days in the vicinity of the ferry it rejoined the brigade, 
and crossed the Potomac into A''irginia, by fording the stream, and pro- 
ceeded southward with the rest of the army. While on the march, the 
rebel cavalry luider Colonel White suddenly dashed in upon the wagon 
train moving with the brigade, and captured Avagons belonging to the 
Sixty-eighth, containing officers' baggage, books, papers, etc., and camp 
and garrison equipage, overpowering and making prisoners of the feeble 
guard which had it in charge; about forty of the Sixty-eighth were taken 
prisoners, sent to Richmond, Virginia, and kept in confinement several 
months. 

On the 12th day of December, 1862, the regiment was lying in winter 
(luarters on Falmouth Heights opposite to Fredericksburg, Virginia, the 
order was given to break camp, and the regiment with the division, then 
under command of General David B. Biruey, moved down to the heights 
overlooking the field where the Union troops had taken position on the 
opposite side of the Rappahannock river below the town, and remained 
there until the 13th instant. It was not until afternoon, and until the 
battle was in progress on the left, that orders were given to cross over 
the river, when the regiment, with the division led by the fearless Birney, 
double-quicked across the pontoon bridge and moved up into line of battle 
under a heavy artillery fire, reaching the field just as the Pennsylvania 
Reserves, under the gallant Meade, w<n'e forced from the heights of 
Fredericksburg, followed closely by the triumphant foe. Our regiment 
was ordered to support Randolph's Battery E, First Rhode Island Artil- 
lery, which at this critical junction was being rapidly served and doing 
fearful execution. The regiment remained in this position, exposed to the 
enemy's answering fire and defending the guns from infantry attack, until 
the cannonading ceased. It was then ordered into position in the first 
line with the brigade, close to the enemy's front ; for two days the regi- 
ment remained in this position, but beyond occasional picket firing was not 
further engaged. On the night of the 15th Instant the brigade was relieved 
by the Second Brigade, which had been in the rear, and under cover of dark- 
ness recrossed the river and again went into winter quarters on Falmouth 
Heights. The loss sustained by the regiment was forty killed and 
wounded, among whom were Major Hawksworth, and Lieutenant Joseph 
E. Davis, of Company F, killed; and a number taken prisoners, including 
the regimental brass band. 

The regiment remained in comparative quiet until January 20, 1863, when 
the army again moved under General Burnside, who proposed to proceed 
up the Rappahannock river, and to cross the river and a second time 



396 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

offer battle, which proved a great failure, and is known as Burnside's 
stuck in the mud. For three days we endured unparallelel suffering from 
the inclement weather and exposure, at the end of which the campaign 
was abandoned, and we returned to our old camp below Fredericksburg 
and again went into winter quarters and remained there until April 28, 
except at time when the regiment was sent out to do occasional picket 
duty . 

In the movement upon Chancellorsville, the Third Army Corps was at 
first marched down the Rappahannock river to the point where they 
crossed in the Fredericksburg campaign, to make a demonstration as if 
to cross and offer battle at this point, while General Hooker, with the 
main body of his army, crossed and effected a permanent lodgment some 
miles above. When this had been accomplished General Daniel E. Sickles, 
who had succeeded to the command of the Third Corps, marched it hastily 
away to rejoin the army, then concentrated at Chancellorsville. We 
crossed the Rappahannock river on the 1st day of May, 1863, having left 
camp on the 2Sth day of April, passing the intermediate time in the 
operations below Fredericksburg. On the evening of May 1, we wei-e 
drawn up in column, with the brigade supporting a battery which had 
opened upon the enemy, that was soon replied to spiritedly with shell. 
One of our regiment's pioneers was wounded. Here we remained during 
the night. The next day we moved into various positions, covering the 
line of skirmishers in the operations against the enemy on the left. At 
evening we retired and remained in position with the brigade. Before the 
men were fully prepared the next morning the enemy made a vigorous 
attack on our left and front and the position of our regiment was changed 
to the extreme right, so as to more carefully cover the battery we were 
supporting, now firing rapidly; the onset, however, was so rapid and de- 
termined and the front line having broken, and fallen back in some con- 
fusion, our regiment was forced to retire with the brigade, after which 
the brigade was quickly reformed and moved again to the front in column 
doubled on the center, deploying at the edge of a woods, to the right 
of our first position, which the enemy now held. We entered and soon 
engaged him in his rifle-pits, which we charged, and after a sharp and 
severe contest we succeeded in taking them. At this point our regiment 
captured some thirty-five officers and men of the Tenth Virginia Regi- 
ment, its colors and color guard. During the battle the regiment was 
always placed in the hottest part of the line and subjected to the severest 
kind of musketry fire. The loss sustained by the regiment was very 
severe. Captain John D. Pawling of Company I, and Captain James 
Shields of Company E, were both mortally wounded. 

The army then recrossed the river and went into camp at Belle Plain 
near Aquia Creek where we remained until the 11th day of June, 186.3, 
when we broke camp to enter upon the Gettysburg campaign ; the march 
was a long and wearisome one, as we were compelled to watch the move- 
ments of the enemy. 

At the opening of the battle of Gettysburg, July 1, 1863, the Third 
Army Corps was at Emmitsburg, Maryland, moving rapidly forward, 
reaching the field late at night. After the dnv's conflict was over as the 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 397 

columu reached this field it went into line of position along a slight ridge 
extending diagonally across that open plain between Cemetery and Semin- 
ary ridges, connecting with Hancock's Second Army Corps on its right 
and its left refused at this peach orchard, and stretched obliquely back 
through that woods to a rocky ravine in front of Round Top, called Devil's 
Den. The brigade, then commanded by General Charles K. Graham, was 
placed in position on that part of the line deflecting from the Emmitsburg 
pike, it stretched, away to Round Top. The angle formed by this de- 
parture was at the point where this i-oad upon which you now stand leads 
from the pike to Little Round Top, and in this angle, near the house of 
John Wantz, which was one of the most exposed parts of the field, our 
regiment was placed, open to a -fire on front and flank, supporting Clark's 
Battery B, First New Jersey Artillery, which was stationed in the yard 
in the rear of the Wantz house, just in our front, and being rapidly served 
and dealing out death and destruction to the enemy with the shot and 
shell they were throwing into their ranks. Many of the men of our 
regiment assisted the artillerymen to serve the cannoneers with their am- 
munition. 

Standing upon this spot, which is the most elevated part of the field, but 
not sufficiently so to be of any advantage in defense, it was a conspicuous 
mark for artillery for long range around, and open to the charge of in- 
fantry. Skirmishing commenced about nine o'clock on the morning of 
July 2, and gradually increased in severity until the battle opened in 
earnest. About four o'clock in the afternoon the enemy opened with 
heavy artillery fire and followed up with infantry, putting in brigade 
after brigade (en-echelon) , commencing on his extreme left ; it was some 
time before the infantry attack reached this peach orchard, here where 
our regiment stood, but the artillery fire bearing upon us was terrific, 
carrying away men at every discharge. As this was the key to the whole 
position it was necessary to hold it at all hazard, and the only alternative 
was to stand and be shot down without the opportunity to reply. In 
the midst of the fight General Graham was wounded and borne from the 
field and the command of the brigade devolved upon our gallant old Colonel 
Tippin. We then advanced into yonder peach orchard, and formed an 
angle fronting qn the pike at the point where you will see that we have 
erected a white marble shaft. In that orchard we received the enemy's 
heavy charge and musketry fire, and bi-avely did the boys of our regi- 
ment return that fire with telling effect at every volley. During that 
bloody ordeal our brave color-sergeant was killed, but our flag was not 
permitted to fall, as the young and brave Color-Corporal McLarnon re- 
ceived the flag from the dead sergeant's hands as he was falling, and 
held it high at the same time waving it and cheering the men on to re- 
newed vigor; for such acts of bravery he was subsequently promoted to 
color-sergeant of the regiment, and faithfully did he discharge his duty and 
carry the flag until the close of the war, and he is now present With us 
to-day. It was a terrible afternoon in that orchard, and we all were 
anxious for reinforcements to come up, as we were being decimated by 
their artillery. In that orchard Lieutenant-Colonel Reynolds and Major 
Winslow were wounded and ten other officers of our regiment were killed 



398 Pennsylvania at Gettyshtirg. 

or wounded, leaving but four officers to bring the regiment out of the fight, 
having had in all but seventeen officers for duty at the commencement of 
the battle. Just at sunset the rebel infantry charged upon the position 
held by our regiment vi'ith great impetuosity, and the brigade, greatly weak- 
ened by its losses, and exhausted by frequent manoeuvrings, outflanked 
and vastly outnumbered, was compelled to yield, but not in disorder, re- 
tiring slowly and contesting the ground inch by inch. At this critical 
juncture a portion of the Fifth Army Corps came to our relief, a new 
line was formed and the enemy repulsed and held in check ; near the close 
of the action General Graham, having returned upon the field attempted 
to resume command and rally the brigade, but being weak from loss of 
blood and unable to endure the trials of that desperately contested field, 
unfortunately fell into the hands of the enemy, and was taken prisoner, 
together with a number of our regiment's men. On this field upon this 
same afternoon the brave and gallant Sickles, our corps commander, lost 
his leg. 

On the 3d day of July, our regiment with the brigade, under command 
of Colonel Tippiu, was held in reserve, forming part of a second line of 
battle on the left center in the rear of the famous Philadelphia Brigade 
of the Second Corps, as their support while they held the bloody angle 
against Pickett's suicidal charge ; the position held by the regiment at 
that point was upon the lowest part of the entire field. Although not 
engaged we were exposed to the terrible fire of the enemy's artillery and 
lost numbers of our men. Colonel Tippin's horse being killed under him 
at that point; the loss sustained by our regiment was about sixty per cent, 
of the entire number engaged. Captain George W. McLearn and Lieu- 
tenant Andrew P>lack, both of Company D, and Lieutenant John Reynolds 
of Company G, were among those killed, and Lieutenant Lewis W. Ealer 
of Company F, was mortally wounded. 

The following is the official report of Colonel Tippin, viz: 

HEADgc^nTERS Sixty-Eighth Regiment 
Pennsylvania VoLCNTEms, August !,, ISGJ. 

Lieutenant: In compliance with orders from lieadqiiartors of the 27th ultimo, I 
resi)ect fully sulimit the following report of the operations of my regiment in the 
recent engagement at and near Gettysburg. 

On the morning of July 2, I moved my regiment with tlie brigade to the posit'on 
assigned us in a large open field in the rear of our line of skirmishers, then engaged 
with the enemy's skirmishers in front. The brigade was deployed In line of battle 
by battalion doubled on the center, my regiment being on the left of the line. After 
remaining in this position some time, the brigade was moved farther to the front, im- 
mediately in rear of Clark's Battery, deployed in line of battle, and ordered to lie 
down. "We remained in this position nearly two hours, suffering severly from the 
destructive fire of the enemy's batteries, posted on our left and front. I was then 
ordered to move my regiment forward into a peach orchard, and fronting a road 
running parallel with the enemy's front. We had been in this position but a short time 
when significant movements on the part of the enemy made it evident we were about to 
be attacked; soon he advanced. I ordered tlie men to reserve their fire until reaching 
a certain point, when a destructive fire was opened, the enemy halted and dropping 
behind a fence, receiving reinforcements, and heav.v masses of his infantry coming 
down on our right, I ordered my command to fall back to the position in the rear of the 
batteries, which was done in good order. Here I met General Graham who ordered me 
to at once engage the enemy coining down on our right flank, which was promptly done 
under his directions. Here too the gallant general was severly wounded and subsequently 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshiir<j. 399 

niaile prisoner. He rloclincd any assistance, and directed nie to take eommand and fight 
on. I supposed him able to g( t to tlie rear, as after dismounting, he walked with 
apparently little difficulty. 

We held the position as long as it was possil)le to hold it. 'J'he artillery having re- 
tired and the ranks very much decimated by the fire of the enemy, who was pushing 
forward in heavy masses, I ordered the command to retire in order, which was done. 
I reported to Ceneral Ward, now in command of the division, who assigned me a 
position, witli directions to bivcmac for the night. 

Ou the morning of the 3d, I was ordered with the brigade to proceed with the division 
to a field a short distance from the place where we bivouacked and stacked arms; remain- 
ing but a short time, I was ordered to move with the division to the left where we 
formed line of battle in rear supporting a part of the Fifth Army Corps. In the 
afternoon the brigade again moved with the division to the rear of the center and in 
support of a battery; we remained here until evening when I was relieved of the com- 
mand. I regret the loss of a great many gallant officers and men of my regiment. The 
brave Captain McLearn and the no less conspicuous Lieutenants Black and Reyuolds 
all fell close to the enemy while cheering on their men. Lieutenant-Colonel Reynolds, 
Major Winslow, Captains Fnnston, Young and Fulmer, and Lieutenants (John J.) 
Fenlin, .Ir., Ealer, Guest, Porter and Hestou, all wounded, bear evidence of their 
good conduct and gallant behavior. I can also bear testimony to the gallantry of the 
other officers of the command. 

Of the non-commissioned officers and privates of the regiment I cannot speak with too 
mucli praise. Their obedience to command and the determined stand made against 
overwhelming odds, their thinned ranks fully prove; animated by the glorious cause in 
whlcli they were engaged, each vied with the other in deeds of gallant daring. 

A list of the casualties has already been forwarded. A tabular statement of killed, 
wounded and missing is herewith appended. 

Very respectfully 
Your obedient servant, 

Andrew H. Tippin, 
Colonel Sirty-eiyhth Rcyimcnt Pennsylvania Volunteers. 

After the return of the army into Virginiii, the regiment participated with 
it in the fall campaign, and was actively engaged at Wapping Heights, 
on the 2.3d day of August, and at Auburn, on the 14th day of October, and 
sustained the loss of a number of men. 

In the sharp turn taken by Genera] Meade, at Ceuterville, Virginia, 
Colonel Tippin was taken prisoner and was confined in Libby prison, at 
Richmond, Virginia, where he remained for nearly nine months. In the 
subsequent advance of the army the regiment, now under command of 
Lieutenant-Colonel Robert E. AVinslow, was actively engaged at Kelly's 
Ford, on the 7th day of November, and at Locust Grove, on the 27th 
day of Novmber, suffering severely. Captain IMilton S. Davis, of Company 
F, being among those killed, and at Mine Run, on the 28th day of No- 
vember, 1863. 

In the entire campaign our regiment was given little rest, being almost 
constantly on the move and suffered considerable loss by sickness and battle. 
The regiment went into winter quarters at Brandy Station near Culpeper, 
Virginia, where the regiment received a number of recruits. In March, 
1864, the Third Army Corps was broken up and the Sixty-eighth, together 
with other regiments, was assigned to the Second Army Corps. 

On the 18th day of April, 1864, the regiment still under the command 
of Lieutenant-Colonel Winslow (Colonel Tippin being still in confinement 
at Libby prison), was ordered to headquarters of General Meade, where 
it was placed under the immediate command of Brigadier-General Patrick, 
the Provost Marshal-General of the Army of the Potomac, and employed 
in doing guard duty ; in this position it remained until the close of the 



400 Fcnnsylvania at Gettysburg. 

war (the duties were onerous and severe) with other regiments in the same 
line of duty and formed into a Provisional Brigade which was subject to 
duty on the battlefield when emergencies required, and in several instances, 
at the critical moment of the battle, when the scale was so evenly poised as 
to be doubtful which way it would turn, this Provisional Brigade was sent 
to the support of the wavering line and made victory secure. When in- 
fanti-y was required for duty with the cavalry in toilsome and fatiguing 
raids, this brigade, with our regiment, was ordered to accompany the 
cavalry, or when regiments were taken from the entrenchment, this bri- 
gade was obliged to take their places in the works. While in front of 
Petersburg, Virginia, one-half of our regiment was on duty at Meade's 
headquarters, and the other half on duty at City Point, Virginia. In the 
official report of General Patrick, dated the 10th day of August, 1864, he 
says the Sixty-eighth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers has been em- 
ployed as prison guard at these headquarters, by no means a light duty, 
and has given very general satisfaction in their performance of it. In the 
battle of the Wilderness and the skirmish at Guinea Station, May 21, they 
acted Avith a great deal of dash and bravery. On the 25th day of June, 
1864, Colonel Tip pin was released from Libby prison and exchanged, and 
resumed command of the regiment. In the last charge upon the enemy's 
lines at Petersburg, before the final move, our regiment was one of the 
storming party. In the sharp conflict which ensued. Major John C. Gal- 
lagher of our regiment was mortally wounded, and a number of our officers 
and men were killed and wounded; among those, wounded were Captain 
Michael Fulmer of Company K, who was badly wounded in the head. 

After the capture of Lieutenant-General Ewell and his forces at Sailor's 
Creek, Virginia, the Sixty-eighth Regiment, in conjunction with other regi- 
ments of the Provisional Brigade under the command of Colonel Tippin, 
was detailed to guard the prisoners and proceed with them to City Point, 
Virginia. The order was faithfully executed without the loss of a man; 
among the prisoners were Lieutenant-General Ewell, INIajor-Generals Custis 
Lee and Kershaw, and other prominent generals of the rebel army, and 
about six hundred officers of a lesser grade. This duty done, the regiment 
returned to the headquarters of the army near Appomattox, having in 
charge about 6,000 recruits that had accumulated at City Point. It had 
been but a short time with the moving column, when General Lee sur- 
rendered ; then General Meade ordered the regiment, in company with the 
One hundred and forty-third Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, to pro- 
ceed to Hart's Island near the city of New York, to take charge of rebel 
prisoners confined there. We proceeded by cars to City Point and from 
City Point to Fortress Monroe by boat; upon our arrival at the Portress, 
we were transferred to and on board of a large government transport 
steamer and conveyed to Hart's Island : we remained upon the Island untU 
the 9th day of June, 1865, when we were mustered out of service with 
four hundred and thirty-two officers and men upon the regimental rolls, and 
returned home to Philadelphia, June 10, 1865. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 401 



ADDRESS OF CAPTAIN THOMAS H. LEABOURNE. 

CO^IRADES: — Another year has passed away and gone and this beau- 
tiful summer's day finds us standing on this sacred spot, commemo- 
rating the memory of our fallen comrades. The harvest is ripening 
with the summer's sun. 

The Alleghenies tower loftly about us ; and our comrades to whom we 
dedicate this monument, lie buried at our feet; with what solemnity I 
approach this spot. When I look back, a quarter of a century, and 
remember this grand old regiment left my native city with over one thou- 
sand men, the flower and youth of that city, and when I remember that 
only four hundred and thirty -two of them returned and were mustered 
out, is it any wonder that I say I approach this spot with a feeling of 
solemnity. The faces before me look from the hills of middle life down 
into the valley of declining years, and the heads are sprinkled with silver 
sand dropped from the hour glass of flying time. Are these the same 
young men who laid their schemes of life aside, abandoned their career, 
and with the spirit of patriots and the devotion of martyrs offered them- 
selves a wUling sacrifice to that country whose startled hills were echoing 
to the guns of Sumter. This is not the time nor is it the place to dwell 
upon the tender memories that connect themselves with this association, 
or the higher or nobler inspirations that come from this scene. 

I cannot make myself believe that twenty-five years ago you who stand 
at my front were in the midst of actual war, and the whole world lean- 
ing forward breathless to hear the latest news from the scarred and bleed- 
ing front. I cl(>se my eyes and the whole bloody panorama is uni'olled 
before me. I catch the roll of the drum, and the shrill music of the fife; 
I see the marching columns stretched across sea to lake ; I hear the bullets 
whistle at the picket line ; I catch the sentry's call ; a line of camp fires 
stretches off across a continent; swords blaze; bayonets bristle, and a mil- 
lion men are under arms. 

The Army of the Potomac flings itself again and again against the 
enemy, night turns into day in the blaze of the cannonade, and up from 
the field of blood comes the moans of wounded and dying. I hear the voice 
of a hundred thousand bleeding lives and broken homes, whence the wail 
of agony arises; the vision passes, I open my eyes upon a new life, new 
people, a new nation, disenthralled, regenerated, this by the goodness of 
Providence and the curing force of time. All the old scars are healed. 
The guns' are silent and moss covered. Well for us and for all of us, 
and all who come after us, that you and such as you fought. And I say 
that I count it my highest honor to be connected with those who played 
s\ich parts in such an army. Peace has been greater than war, the skilful 
hand of science has brought into use unknown powers of the air, and 
mysterious forces of the earth, and the lovely hands of art are crowning 
our country with beauty. The numbers and wealth of our people have 
doubled, so has our territory, for the condemned deserts of the west turn 
out to be granaries of bread and pastures of meat for the w^orld, the for- 



402 Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 

bidden rocks are silver and gold, and under their frowning peaks are found 
the sublime glories of nature, the pleasure grounds of mankind. The 
genius of America has united our distant coasts with bands of steel, and 
planted her feet upon those blue precipices which old explorers used to call 
the land of the shining mountains beyond the western plains. 

But, comi-ades, I am reminded that I am getting away from my duty. 
The oration of the day has already been delivered by my distinguished 
friend. I have a plain duty to perform, a duty that might have been placed 
in abler hands, but as I have assumed the responsibility, nothing remains 
but the performance of that duty. 

Comrade Craighead: Your committee has designated me to present this 
monument to the Gettysburg Battlefield Memorial Association. And, 
comrades and friends, this grand old regiment, with its war-worn officers 
who distinguished themselves in more than one war, whose deeds of valor 
and whose bravey will be handed down to posterity, will live forever. 
Colonel Tippin was a born soldier, beloved by his officers and men ; he 
died as he lived, a faithful soldier, a true gentleman, a kind and loving 
husband. Lieutenant-Colonel Reynolds, who was shot and wounded on 
this field, and totally disabled for future service, died in Philadelphia city 
but a few years ago since, honored by all who knew him for his devotion to 
his country and to his people. The fearless and no less brave Major 
Hawksworth, was killed at the Battle of Fredericksburg, Virginia, while 
gallantly leading his men. Captain Robert E. Winslow and subsequent 
major and lieutenant-colonel, and Captain Michael Fulmer, subsequent 
major, all veterans of the Mexican war. Colonel Winslow is still alive. 
Major Fulmer, the latter— look at the old war-worn veteran bearing the 
scars of many battles and with over seventy years of life's battles passed, 
with all the vigor and manhood of a boy — is with us to-day. 

But do not have me forget the brave boys who ranked as privates, a 
braver and more determined and faithful regiment of men never entered 
the army, and, sir, in presenting to your association this beautiful monu- 
ment, I do it with a devout reverence and with an undying love for the mem- 
ory of those brave men who in their youth and manhood offered and gave 
their lives that thip country might live. They fell defending and upholding all 
that that flag represents and embodies ; the armies of the Union and the 
armies of the Rebellion together, the people, north and south, east and west, 
can and will make for all time to come this republic that Lincoln died for, 
a government of the people, by the people, and for the people ; and now 
in the name and in behalf of the survivors of the Sixty-eighth Pennsylvania 
Veteran Voluateer Infantry, Philadelphia Scott Legion Regiment, I have 
the honor of presenting to your care and keeping this handsome granite 
monument which marks the spot upon this memorial field where this grand 
old regiment stood unflinching twenty-five years ago, and where their brave 
comrades fell and gave iip their lives upon the altar of their country that 
this glorious Union might be forever perpetuated. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 403 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

69™ REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

September 11, 1889 
ADDRESS OF COLONEL JAMES O'REILLY 

COMRADES:— Standing here on ground at once historic and sacred, and 
to memory ever dear, once again I greet you, and to you I would 
say that this time— perhaps the hist time, as an organized body, that 
we shall visit this hallowed spot — we have come to pay final tribute, final 
honor, to our dead; not only those who here fell fighting that the Union 
might live, but to all our comrades, who, on any of the battlefields of the 
war for the Union (and that was nearly all in which the grand old Army of 
the Potomac took part) offered up their lives a willing sacrifice, that this, 
the most beneficent form of government which has ever blessed the earth, 
should be preserved and perpetuated in all its beauty, grandeur and great- 
ness and forever. 
It is written that 

"Whether on the scaffold high, or iu the battle's van. 
The noblest place for man to die, is where he dies for man." 

Is it SO? 

Then I claim for these, our fallen comrades, that they died in the fore- 
front of the battle, for the rights of man and in the interest of humanity. 

Again, it is written that "greater love than this hath no man, that he 
lay down his life for his friend," and who so proves his love for his friends 
as the soldier wh(! willingly yields up life, liberty and the pursuit of happi- 
ness in their interest. 

Again, I claim for these, our comrades, that from the gloomy beginning 
of the struggL^, in 1861, until its final and glorious termination in 1865, 
they daily offered themselves to death and to God, with that sublime end 
in view. Does any man question this? Then to him I would say, "Be- 
hold a country, which under God's pi-ovidence, has been and is now the 
refuge of God's poor, the oppressed of all nations — preserved from de- 
struction, let us hope forever. Behold the arch enemy of the liberties of 
this and of all nations and peoples, utterly discomfited and thwarted in 
her vile purpose of disrupting, destroying this government of the people, for 
the people, and by the people, who, not as of yore, by brazen armed inter- 
vention in our affairs, but this time by most wily and insidious means, 
did all in her power to ruin and make it a dependency of hers and plunder 
and impoveris'n its people. Of course, I allude to the government of Eng- 
land. And again, behold a hideous crime atoned for, a foul blot wiped 
out forever — in blood, it is true — but wiped out forever by the enfranchise- 



*Ori?anizi'd at Philadelphia, August 18, 1861, to serve three years. On the expiration of 
its term of service the original members (except veterans) were mustered out and the 
organization composed of veterans and recruits retained in service until July 1, 1865, 
when it was mustered out. 



404 ■ Pennsylvania at GettysT)urg. 

ment of over four millions of bondsmen, slaves set free, a dissevered people, 
reunited, the blessings of peace restored." 

Oh! surely, my dear comrades, living and dead, it was a holy cause 
you battled for. Yea, and God's holy ones, the priests of God, were with 
us. They blessed our arms and the hands that bore them. They accom- 
panied us to the field and daily ministered to our spiritual wants, and by 
word and example did what they could to encourage us and bless our 
efforts — God bless them, dear Fathers Martin, Paul E. Gillen, Corby, Wil- 
lets, McKee, Dillon, and a host of others, God be with them. 

Comrades, it is also written that it is a wholesome and a holy thought 
to pray for the dead. Forget not this duty, this day nor any other day 
of the time that is left you. Pray then to the Lord of Hosts, the God 
of Battle, for your dead, for all the dead, whose souls rebaptized in their 
blood, went up to Him amidst scenes of strife and carnage during those dire 
years pf war and its attendant calamities. They may need our prayers— 
who can tell? Pray then, most ardently, I beseech you, for the soul of 
that heroic soldier, Colonel Dennis O'Kane, who fell near the spot now 
marked by our monument, where, but a short time before, he stood grimly 
smiling at the stubborn resistance offered by the sturdy men under his 
command, to the fierce onslaught of Pickett's men, and forget not the 
other brave officers and enlisted men, who, to the number of one hundred 
and forty-seven, fell here beside him, and whose unparalleled bravery and 
stubborn coura^^e here tossed back the highest, mightest wave of the Re- 
bellion . 

Nor would I have you forget those of our comrades, who fell on other 
fields than this, for 

Some fell ou far-off fields of fame. 

Some here sank down to rest. 
And the dear land they loved so well, 

Now folds them to her breast. 
All nearly gone, yet still lives on 

The memory of those who died. 
And true men, like you men, 

liemember them with pride. 

Comrades, in thus honoring the dead, you do honor to the living. You 
honor yourselves, and that beautiful monument will tell the story to genera- 
tions yet unborn, of your heroic deed, and the deeds, the heroism of the 
comrades who have gone on to "fame's eternal camping grounds" before you. 
They lived with honor — they died with honor ; be it yours to follow 
their example. 

And now, dear comrades, as a part of the duty assigned me on this 
occasion, I will proceed to give our hearers a brief glimpse of the early 
history of the regiment. 

Long before grim-visaged civil war reared his horrid front in this our 
land, affrighting the inhabitants thereof, there existed in the city of Phila- 
delphia, State of Pennsylvania, a body of Irish-American citizen soldiery, 
known as the Second Regiment Philadelphia County Volunteers. It was 
numbered the Second Regiment,. Second B'igade, and belonged to the First 
Division Pennsylvania Militia. 



Pennsylvania at Oettyshurg. 405 

The material of which it was composed (the officers and men) was re- 
cruited or came from the humbler walks of life in the great city. They 
were mostly hardy sons of toil ; men who earned their bread by the sweat 
of their brows. But very ambitious in a military point of view, and very 
patriotic, always ready to obey the orders of their officers ; always ready 
to defend the authorities and assist them, whether national, state or city ; 
ever ready to shed their blood, if necessary, in defense of the honor and 
integrity of their adopted country, while cherishing an ardent love for the 
land of their birth, not because of the nationality of the officers and men, 
and the names of the companies of which it was composed. It was fre- 
quently, and truth compels me to add, derisively styled the Irish brigade, 
and there are here, to-day, some who can look back with shame and sorrow, 
to the time when hisses, derisive cries and shouts of contempt were freely 
bestowed on us and on more than one occasion something harder, in the 
shape of bricks and stones, fell thick and fast in the ranks of the organiza- 
tion, as it marched through the streets of that city — the city of brotherly 
love. * 

But, thanks to God, and the services rendered by them and kindred 
organizations of which there were many in the late war, such senseless 
bigotry, such mean and contemptible prejudice obtains no more in this 
broad land. 

And, oh, my countrymen. Irishmen, what a debt of gratitude you owe 
to those, our comrades, to the brave men of our race, who, to the number 
of one hundred and forty-four thousand (see Professor Gould's statistics) 
went into the field in defense of our adopted country and made such a 
glorious record there. Nor does the above number include the tens of 
thousands of Irishmen's sons and their immediate descendents who took 
part in the strike on the side of the government. 

At the outbreak of the war the above organization was altered, as follows: 

For certain cogent reasons. Colonel Conroy resigned and by the advice 
and on the recommendation of the brigade commander. General John D. 
Miles, Joshua T. Owen was elected to fill the vacancy; D. Heenan remained 
lieutenant-colonel; James Harvey, beaten in the race for the majority, re- 
signed and organized a company for Max Einstein's regiment. Dennis 
O'Kane, then captain of Company C, was elected major, and James 
O'Reilly, fourth sergeant of Company C, was elected captain of said com- 
pany ; in this oi-der the regiment entered the field as the Twenty-fourth In- 
fantry Pennsylvania Volunteers for three-mouths' service under the call 
of the President for seventy-five thousand men. The regiment faithfully 
performed all duties assigned it, and was one of the two regiments who 
listened to the appeal of General Patterson to remain in the field after 
its service had expired until reinforcements could arrive to defend the 
upper Potomac, although over two hundred of the men were shoeless and 
with underwear for breeches. 

Mustered out August 9, 1861," it was immediately reorganized for three- 
years' service as the Second Regiment of Baker's Brigade, afterwards 
known as the Sixty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers. It would have been 
known as the Sixty-eighth but for a few of the old officers who were proud 



27 



406 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

of the record made by their kindred of the Sixty-ninth New York, and ap- 
pealed to Colonel Andrew Tippin and his officers to exchange numbers — 
this they agreed to do, and the consent of the great War Governor, A. G. 
Curtin, himself Irish by descent, being obtained, the regiment became the 
Sixty-ninth. 

Four of the company commanders, for reasons best known to themselves, 
refused to remain under the formed command, and left the organization. 
These were Captains Thomas A. Smyth, Hugh Rodgers and James Mc- 
Geough and P. O. Murphy. Captains Rogers and McGeough were replaced 
by Captains Thompson and Fury, and sometime after its arrival in the 
field it was joined by two companies under Captains Davis and McNamara. 

The complexion of the field and staff was altered by the retirement of 
Lieutenant-Colonel Dennis Heenan, who afterwards organized the One 
hundred and sixteenth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and the appointment to 
his place of Major Dennis O'Kane ; John Devereux of Chestnut HUl was 
made major; Martin Tschudy, a promineit young lawyer of West Wash- 
ington Square, was appointed adjutant; C. C. Bombaugh, M. D., surgeon; 
and B. A. McNeill, assistant surgeon, with J. Robinson Miles are quarter- 
master. 

During its organization, some generous friends of the regiment, headed 
by Thomas Dolan, Esq., procured and presented to the regiment a beautiful 
green flag. On one side was painted the coat-of-arms of Pennsylvanii, 
and on the other the Wolf-dog, Round Tower and Sunburst of Ireluid. 
And here let me call your attention to the fact that the Sixty-ninth was the 
only regiment that went out from the State of Pennsylvania carryins; the 
flag of Ireland side by side with those of the United States. Under these 
flags, these glorious emblems, under officers tried and true, a sturdier, 
nobler-hearted, braver body of men than those who in this regiment left 
Philadelphia for Washington in the early fall of 1861, it was hard to find. 
I say this as a comrade, as one who by long association with the ma- 
jority of them before and during the war had learned their worth. I 
say it because I am speaking of the dead-^the greater number having 
passed from scenes of strife here below to, I fervently hope, the peaceful 
abode of the blessed. 

And without disparagement to our comrade regiments, or any body of 
troops then in the field. I claim for this regiment, first, that it faithfully 
performed all duties assigned it, in camp, in garrison, on the march or in 
battle, never turning its rear to the enemy, except when compelled by orders 
from superior authority; second, that the regiment never lost a flag to 
the enemy, and on two occasions saved the colors of other regiments from 
falling into the enemy's hands ; third, that by its desperate charge at Glen- 
dale or Frayser's Farm, it saved the day and possibly the army; fourth, 
that this regiment furnished to the service three able general officers, 
to-wit. General J. T. Owen, a former commander. General M. Kerwin, 
formerly a sergeant in Company H, now editor and proprietor New York 
Tablet, and General Thomas A. Smythe, who was formely captain Company 
H (Twenty-fourth), and whom, I believe to be the last general officer killed 
on the Union side during the war; fifth, that but for the mistaken zeal 
in the performance of his duty and the persistent and positive refusal on 



Pennsylvania at Oettyshurg. 407 

the part of Captain Wm. McBride, Seventy -second Pennsylvania Volun- 
teers to i)erniit it, the flag of this regiment would have been the first to 
float over the enemy's work at Yorktown, and in all probability, the regi- 
ment would have furnished a fourth general officer to the service, as 
Deveus of Massachusetts, who entered the Avorks four hours later, was made 
a general therefor; sixth, that this regiment was among the first to enter 
the field in defense of the Union, and served continuously until honorably 
mustered out at the dose of the war by reason of its services being no 
longer required . 

All this to your lasting credit, my comrades living, all this to the honor 
of the dead of this regiment, who here and elsewhere sleep the sleep that 
knows no waking — ah ! 

How sleep the brave who sink to rest 

By all their country's wishes blest. 
When spring with dewy fingers cold, 

Iteturns to decli their hallowed mould, 
Even freedom shall awhile repair ' 

To dwell a weeping hermit there. 



ADDRESS OF CAPTAIN JOHN E. REILLY. 

COMRADES of the Sixty-ninth: — We have again met on this historic 
field to rededicate this memorial shaft which marks the spot made 
famous by yuur heroic deeds. Within the twenty-five square miles 
t)f this battlefield there are many interesting places where many deeds 
of bravery were performed, but there was but one Pickett's charge at 
Gettysburg, and on this spot, and by you, by comrades of the Sixty-ninth, 
ably spported by your comrades of the Philadelphia Brigade, was that 
charge met, and the flood-tide of rebellion checked. It was here you met 
the flower of the Confederate army in hand-to-hand encounter, and here 
many of our brave companions laid down their lives in that terrible struggle. 

When Hancock arrived on this field during the first day's fight every- 
thing was in doubt: the right wing of the army having been driven from 
beyond the town, the gallant Reynolds killed, and many of the regiments 
panic stricken in consequence of their loss. And not until be brought his 
own Second Corps on the field and deployed them along this ridge on the 
2d, and brave Warren had secured Round Top for the artillery, was our 
army secure in its position. 

The Sixty-ninth Regiment was placed along the slope of this ridge and 
ordered to hold the line secure iu this position. And you faithfully did 
what you were told, as in every position throughout the war in which 
you were placed you proved faithful to the trust. 

On the afternoon of the 2d, the enemy in force attacked the left; the 
brave Sickles was badly wounded and his corps being driven from its 
advanced position, when gallant Hancock came to the rescue. But so 



■408 Fennsi/lvania at Gettysburg. 

impetuous was the enemy's assault, that on they came like the fury of 
the whirlwind, until they had advanced to within a few paces of this 
line ; the battery on your front . was driven from its position and two of 
its guns were left to the advancing enemy who made several desperate at- 
tempts to capture them, and was driven from them each time by your 
well-directed nre until at last they were forced to retire, the. guns recovered 
from the battery, the contest for the day ceased, and the Sixty-ninth nobly 
held their position. 

On the third day, notwithstanding there had been ample time for en- 
trenching, there were no entrenching tools furnished and consequently no 
attempts made to strengthen this position expecting every moment a re- 
newal of the contest, when suddenly, about one o'clock, yonder ridge com- 
menced to belch forth its volcanic fire on your unprotected position. Shot, 
shell, Whitworth bolts, every missile known to modern warfare, was 
thrown against this position for two long hours. This was the prelude to the 
most desperate infantry charge of modern times, for soon Pickett's Divi- 
sion was seen marching out from the shelter of yonder woods with colors 
flying defiantly to the breeze and seeming to say. We come to pierce your 
center, match us if you can. 

Kemper, Garnett and Armistead, 4,900 strong, with Heth's Division 
under Pettigrew on their left, and Wilcox's Division on their right, the 
whole of the advancing column about 13,000 men. 

Pickett's men had been given this clump of trees as an objective point 
for their attack, and the Sixty-ninth was the barrier between them. On 
they came in grand display, and, notwithstanding their ranks were being 
thinned by the artillery fire from all along this ridge, they marched forward 
with the steadiness of men on parade seeming determined to sweep all 
before them. These, my comrades, were the moments that tried men's 
souls, none but the bravest hearts could await the assault which was 
then approaching, but as confidently as thQ attacking column came just 
as confidently did you await their coming. The eyes of the whole country 
were at that moment centered on Gettysburg, and fervent prayers were 
ascending to the God of Hosts that the sweeping flood of rebellion should 
be checked. All attention of both armies was directed to this position, 
for soon the giants met to determine the fate of the day, and then was the 
tug of war on your front and in your midst. My comrades, the pride 
of the rebel army was broken, demoralized and almost annihilated. Aye! 
the proud and defiant champions of Lee's army had met their match. The 
gauntlet so defiantly thrown down by them had been picked up, and they 
paid the penalty for their rashness. These fields were covered with their 
dead who came never to return again. 

Pickett's charge was repulsed and the country saved. Harrisburg, 
Philadelphia and Pennsylvania relieved, for had General Lee's plan suc- 
ceeded in cutting this center position, nothing could have stayed their 
onward march" so here, on this very spot, the flood-tide of rebellion reached 
its high water-mark, from whence it was ever after made to recede. But 
at what frightful cost of precious blood, 40,000 mowed down in that mighty 
harvest of death around this little town of Gettysburg, and you, my com- 
rades, contributed largely to that number. Your gallant leaders. Colonel 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 409 

O'Kane and Lieiitcnant-Colonol Tschiidy wore killed, and of the two 
hundred and fifty-eight comrades of the Sixty-ninth Regiment entering 
the fight on the 2d of July, 1863, you lost in killed, wounded and missing, 
fifty-five per cent, of that number in this battle. . 

Tennyson has immortalized in poem the famous six hundred who lost 
thirty-six and seven-tenths per cent, at Balaklava, and we read in history 
of great achievements being performed on other battlefields, but, my com- 
rades, the deeds and glories of Roman legion and Grecian phalanx would 
pale before the deeds of valor performed at Gettysburg. 

Centuries may pass and new generations populate bur land, yet the name 
of Gettysburg will not fail to call before memory the heroic deeds en- 
acted there. Its deeds of valor are not chanted in undying epic or im- 
mortal poems, yet beside Thermopylae and Marathon, Waterloo and Bala- 
klava, stands the name of Gettysburg, and coupled with that of Gettys- 
burg as one of the glittering stars in the brilliant firmament of fame,, will 
be that of the gallant old Sixty-ninth Pennsylvania. Many years have 
passed, my comrades, since your brave deeds helped to make this field 
famous. In all these years you had no one to sing your praise. You 
modesty awaited the time when the truth of history must be known, and 
your deeds would then compare favorably with the most valiant. You 
were always placed where carnage was thickest and you unflinchingly did 
your duty. None could do more. Few did as well. 

But look now once more on these fields which were once the theatre of 
bloody strife ; the scenes have changed . These ridges no longer belch forth 
their volcanic fires ; the beaten intervale furrowed by shot and shell is 
smoothed by rolling years. The trees have drawn their coats of bark over 
their wounds, the sharp volleys of musketry have ceased, no parks of 
artillery awake their thunder, no hoofs of rushing squadrons sink into the 
bosoms of the dying, the shrieks of the wounded are hushed. No comrade 
searches for friend, no father for son, no sister for brother, the actors 
have disappeared, the dead are mingled with the dust, the survivors scat- 
tered and the great chieftains have fallen asleep. Horse and rider, plume 
and epaulet, flashing sword and gleaming bayonet, cannon and cannoneer, 
trumpet and banner, have all vanished, and the sun as it rises from its 
purple bed, crowns the battlefield with the jewels of the morning, and 
mantles the warrior's grave with tender grass and nodding flowers. So 
may there come through this great war perennial peace. May time assuage 
all sorrows and heal all wounds. May the blood of the sacrifice cement 
and sanctify the Union and the principles settled by it stand forever. May 
the north and south, the east and west, our whole country redeemed, re- 
formed, regenerated, unite to perpetuate the nation over which the star 
of the empire, having no farther west to go, may pause, shine and stay 
forever. 



410 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

71ST REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

July 3, 1S87 
ADDRESS OF SERGEANT JOHN W. FRAZIER 

WITHIN a day 01; two of the firing upon Fort Sumter by the rebels 
of the South under command of General Beauregard, the Hon. 
Edward D. Baker, a Senator from Oregon, called upon President 
Lincoln and tendered his services in any capacity he might best serve his 
country, or the President choose to make use of them. President Lincoln 
promptly suggested that he raise a regiment of infantry, and Senator Baker 
at once started for the city of New York for that purpose. 

The firing upon Sumter had caused a great uprising of the people of 
the loyal North, and in harmony with that patriotic impulse of the people, 
a great town meeting was held in the cit.y of New York, at which Senator 
Baker was invited to be present and to speak. Never did the eloquent 
statesman from the Pacific slope speak more feelingly than on this occasion, 
and with a voice tremulous with emotion and a determination characteristic 
of the great patriot he closed that short speech in these words: 

And if from the far Pacific a voice feebler than the feeblest murmur upon its shore 
may be here to give you courage and hope in the contest, that voice is yours to-day; 
and if a man whoso hair is gray, who is well-nigh worn out in the battle and toil of 
life, may pledge himself on such an occasion and in such an audience, let me say as 
my last word, that when amid sheeted fire and flame I saw and led the hosts of New 
York as they charged upon a foreign soil for the honor of your flag, so again, if Provi- 
dence shall will it, this feeble hand shall draw a sword never yet dishonored— not to 
fight for distant honor in a foreign land, but to fight for country, for home, for law, 
for government, for constitution, for right, for freedom, for humanity, and in the hope 
that the banner of my country may advance, and wheresoever that banner waves 
there glory may follow and freedom be established. 

Colonel E. D. Baker was born in England and with his parents and a 
younger brother came to this country when he was about ten years of 
age ; they settled in Philadelphia in which city he attended the public 
schools until the death of his father which compelled him to seek employ- 
ment in one of the many cotton mills of Philadelphia. At the age of 
twenty-one years he started for the great West, settling in Springfield, 
Illinois, where he soon afterwards commenced the study followed by the 
practice of law. In the year 1846 he was elected to Congress as a Whig, 
defeating Abraham Lincoln before the nominating convention. Upon the 
breaking out of the Mexican war, Congressman Baker returned to Spring- 
field, raised a regiment of infantry and with it joined General Scott's 
army on its march to the city of Mexico. After the battle of Cerro-Gordo 
Colonel Baker v,-as placed in command of a brigade. After the close of the 
Mexican war he returned to Illinois, and was again elected to Congress 
from that State. In 1851 he removed to San Francisco; later on he re- 
moved to Oregon Territory, and was chosen the first United States Senator 



*Organi/:ed at Plilladelphia, August IS. 1S61, to serve three years. It was mustered 
out July 2, 1S64, by reason of expiration of term of service. 



A. 







Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 411 

upon that Territory's entrance, into the Union — taking bis seat in the United 
States Senate on the day that Abraham Lincoln was inaugurated President, 
March 4, 1861. 

Sometime during the month of April, 1861, President Lincoln gave 
informal authority to Colonel Baker to raise a regiment of infantry, and 
he went from Washington to New York for that purpose, but not meet- 
ing with the success he anticipated he came on to Philadelphia for the 
purpose of conferring with Isaac J. Wistar, his law partner during the 
time he was a resident of San Francisco. Wistar promised to raise a 
regiment inside of thirty days, but his legal mind led him to suggest that 
official authority first be obtained. That was given by General Cameron 
in the following form: 



Colonel E. D. B.\ker, Senate: 



War Department, 
Washington City, May 8, 1861. 



Sib: — You are authoiized to raise, for the service of the United States, a regiment of 
troops (infantry), with yourself as colonel, to be taken as a portion of any troops that 
may be called from the State of California by the United States, and to be known as 
the California Regiment. Orders will be issued to the mustering officer in New York 
to muster the same into the service as soon as presented. 

In case the proper government officers are not prepared to furnish clothing for the 
men of your regiment at the time .you find it necessary, you are authorized to purchase 
for cash their outfit of clothing, provided the same is properly charged on the muster 
rolls of your command. 

I am, sir, very respectfully. 

Your obedient servant, 

Simon Cameron, 
Secretary of War, 

Even previous to the writing of that letter by the Secretary of War, Mr. 
Wistar had three companies, A. B and C, mustered into service for three 
years, the mustering officer, Colonel Ruff, of the United States army, per- 
forming that duty in Philadelphia, and before the first day of June a full 
regiment of ten companies was organized, equipped and drilling in squad, 
company, battalion and regimental manoeuvres on the beautiful parade 
groiinds of Fort Schuyler, located at the junction of East river and Long 
Island Sound. The eni'olment and muster of several companies of the 
regiment are dated April 16, 1861. 

Such, in brief, was the formation of the California regiment, afterwards 
the Seventy-first of the Pennsylvania line. Its colonel was a member of 
Congress when the Mexican war broke out and resigned his seat to lead 
a regiment and bri'^ade in that conflict; he was a Senator in Congress when 
the rebellion to overthrow the government of the United States began, but, 
at the request of President Lincoln, he retained his seat in the Senate 
while in command of his regiment, and the Seventy-first had the distinc- 
tion of being commanded by an officer who was at the same time a Senator 
of the United States — an honor accorded to no other regiment during the 
war of the rebellion. 

Colonel E. D. Baker was in truth a statesman and soldier; he fell with 
his face to the foe at Ball's Bluff, his body pierced by seven rebel bullets ; 
his death took from the Philadelphia Brigade its loved and loving com- 
mander; it made vacant a seat in the Senate, and it cast a deep gloom, a 
shadow dark, over the whole loyal North. 



412 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

On the 13th of April, 1886, the surviving members of the Seventy-first 
Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers organized a regimental association, 
and, under the chairmanship of Lieutenant Wm. S. Stockton, proceedings 
were begun for the erection of a monument to mark the line of battle 
held by the regiment at the Bloody Angle of Cemetery Ridge, and on the 
afternoon of July 3, 1887, in the presence of seven hundred surviving 
members of the Philadelphia Brigade, of nearly all the surviving members 
of Covran's New York Battery, of three hundred members of Pickett's 
Division of Confederate soldiers who were present as the invited guests 
of the Philadelphia Brigade, and more than two thousand citizens of 
Gettysburg and the surrounding country, the Association of Survivors of 
the California Regiment, the Seventy-first of the Pennsylvania Line, dedi- 
cated their monument. 



. ADDRESS OF BRIGADIER-GENERAL W. W. BURNS. 

BAKER'S California Regiment: — Called into being by the inspiring 
eloquence of the great orator whose name you bore, how could a 
"dumb servitor" of the State master such glowing sentences to vi- 
brate a rythmic sound in your ears or stir a tlirobbing pulse in your 
hearts? 

I came to you when in the deepest mourning for your dead father — 
stricken on the field of battle before your eyes— when your hearts refused 
to be comforted. Like the Israelites in Egypt, you felt that I was a 
Pharaoh, who knew not Joseph, and oppressed you — strangers in a strange 
land. You had been reared under patriarchal rule; I brought the iron auto- 
cratical rule of stern discipline. How you hated the despot! who, if not 
an usurper, used all the forms of tyranny. 

I had to be cruel, only to be kind, to arouse your lethargy to a sense 
of duty. Your health, your life, and your honor were in my keeping, all 
shaken at Ball's Bluff, and to be tried in future fields. You forgave me 
when you knew. The hour of your forgiveness is stamped upon my 
memory — it was at Fair Oaks. The brigade was in column, closed in mass, 
the sound of battle approaching. An awe of expectancy was in the sur- 
rounding stillness, when suddenly was heard the pattering of balls on the 
leaves of the forest trees near. The shriek of a shell! The detonating 
crash of its bursting overhead ! Then the wolfish howl, first heard — the 
rebel yell ! 

The mass was petrified. A shiver ran through the ranks. I turned and 
saw a sea of upturned faces, pale as the dead. I was shocked. My out- 
burst of "steady men" was like a thunder-clap in a clear sky — an electric 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 413 

shock — that ran through the nerves, and sent the blood back to the surface. 
The reaction M'as instantaneous. A shout arose in answering confidence, 
which made the welkin ring. Caps were thrust on bayonets and run up 
in air. Round after round of stentorian cheers rolled over the field, which 
were said to have checked the onset of the foe, and strengthened friends 
far and near. It was a moral victory, followed by a victory in deeds. 

That moment cemented a union between the hearts of the men and that 
of their general, never to be weakened. What was the lesson of that 
hour? It was the confidence of discipline. The shoulder to shoulder 
camaraderie. The doubt of your fitness for the work was instantly re- 
moved. You were eager for the test of your prowess, to win your fame, 
to conquer under your flag. I said in my report of that battle, "My brigade 
was christened under fire. It will do what is required of it." So you 
did. In every battle afterwards it stood like a wall in the fight. I had 
occasion soon after to thank a captain of your regiment, before the bri- 
gade, for stemming a torrent with his men, when attacked behind the rifle- 
pits we had captured at Garnett's Farm. I had occasion to report at 
Peach Orchard, where your regiment alone held an army in check, "The 
Seventy-first Pennsylvania Volunteers, under its gallant young lieutenant- 
colonel, wrung high enconiums from the corps commander, who knows 
what hard fighting means." 

At Glendale (Charles City Cross Roads) I sent you in with the Nine- 
teenth Massachusetts, to fill a gap between the Sixty-ninth and Seventy- 
second Pennsylvania of our brigade, where you met and repulsed the ad- 
vancing and exulting foe, and, although we did not know it then, your 
crashing volleys held forty thousand men at bay, who, but for our brigade, 
who have pierced the line of march of our army at that point. 

Why these reminiscences of other fields than Gettysburg? My fare- 
well order enjoined strict adherence to discipline. The God of war did 
not, like Minerva, spring full equipped from the head of Jove. You were 
preparing for the culminating test of discipline. You were destined to fiU 
a space in a line of battle with the world for spectators, where a typical 
clan of the cavalier was to hurl its momentum against disciplined courage — 
the staying qualities of the cooler North — where the waves of the highest 
tide of war were to dash upon the rocks of the Union, that echoed in the 
rear, "Thus far, no farther;" and the mighty ocean of strife was to ebb back 
into the bed of peace. Pickett's charge will live in song, and its sad 
requiem will echo "the Philadelphia Brigade." "When Greek meets Greek, 
then comes the tug of war." Here upon this historic field Americans can 
say the same of Americans. Which can claim superiority, when perhaps 
chance turned the scale? Had some other brigade been here, without your 
staying qualities — had not the prescience of your colonel seized upon the 
guns loaded and capped, left by the dead and wounded of the day before, 
and piled here opportunely at hand, whereby he multiplied the force of 
your fire many times your numbers, and by so placing his right behind 
walls as to enfilade the advancing mass ; had not the one piece of cannon 
been seized by the aid of your infantry, and run into the angle of wall 
to be loaded to the muzzle with broken shells, balls and bayonets, hurling 
its deadly contents into the staggering mass at a close range ; had not your 



414 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

brothers of the Sixty-ninth wheeled to face the breach opposite, and take 
the foe in flank, while the Seventy-second and a part of the One hundred 
and sixth advanced to meet his front — what might have been the result at 
that weak center? 

These unique and terrible resources might well have astonished and 
broken the hearts of exhausted manhood. They exhibited the genius of war 
in concentrating on strong points, and opening a trap to choke in a defile. 
The God of battles alone can know why the center of our army was not 
pierced on that day. But we now know that it was the second time in 
the history of the war that the Army of the Potomac owed to the Phila- 
delphia Brigade the safety of its center. The fact that less than a hun- 
dred Confederates crossed that stone wall proves that the force of the 
charge was broken by the cross-fire beyond, and these could well be cared 
for by the reserve of the brigade. Bachelder's map shows the great space 
between your brigade and that on your right, the thinnest of the line. 
You claim only to have done your duty, but the time, place and opportunity 
were yours. God, in his all-wise providence, decided events. We are now 
united, never again to be divided; our Union is cemented with our blood. 
Those who fell are honored as heroes : those who remain are brothers in 
arms, dedicating here mementoes of valor, not of strife. I met recently 
an officer, a colonel, here. He said he started to ride at General Armistead, 
to overthrow him, and prevent the men from shooting him. This was valor 
in strife, honorable warfare, so different from political strife, which never 
forgives its own wrong-doing. 

The Philadelphia Bj-igade fraternizes with Pickett's Division. They 
recognize each other's bravery and respect each other's fame. The world 
will applaud both alike, and history will record their deeds together. This 
memorial of a regiment's deeds is a memento-mori of those who fell on 
both sides, and will bo a guide-mark on the route to fame for the future 
American soldier. 

The fortunate few who fought here that day, must wear the wreath 
of greatest glory, for the most conspicuous hand-to-hand encounter. That 
honor is shared by the Seventy-first Pennsylvania Volunteers, as a member 
of the Philadelphia Brigade, which received the force of the gallant charge 
of Pickett's Division. It is not invidious to speak of this regimaut and that 
brigade, for it was the key of the position, and it was the fate of war. 

Other regiments and other brigades did their duty, and assisted in the 
fight; but here was the point of attack, here the rain of shot and shell 
centered, and fell in torrents long before the charge. Here is the historic 
spot, and around it a halo of glory will ever cluster, and the aureole encircle 
the brows of those who fought, with the light of undying fame. 

It is fiat jHstiiia that Pennsylvania's sons should here defend their native 
soil. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 415 



ADDRESS OF BRIGADIER-GENERAL ISAAC J. WISTAR. 

COMRADES and friends : — Upon me has been conferred the honor of 
delivering this completed monument to the custody and pious care 
of the Battlefield Memorial Association. 

We hope it may endure while these surrounding hills shall stand, not 
simply to mark for posterity this spot on which such momentous events 
transpired, but as a memorial from us few survivors to commemorate the 
far greater number of our glorious dead. 

You must give me a minute to recover myself. I cannot look on your 
small array — pitiful indeed in numbers, though in nothing else — without 
contrasting it with the numerous and gallant body I once led, and the 
feeling is too much for me. 

Your regiment, the Seventy-first of Pennsylvania, was mustered in on 
the 16th of May, 1861, by a captain of engineers, who afterwards became 
one of the greatest and most distinguished soldiers of our country, and 
whose great fame and reputation are among the most precious possessions 
of his fellow-soldiers and countrymen. General William F. Smith. 

It served its term in the Second Corps of the Army of the Potomac, but 
I will not enter on its history, which is well-known to every gallant soldier 
of that army. It was entitled to be mustered out on the 16th of May, 
1864, when the army was locked in deadly embrace with the brave Army 
of Northern Virginia, but at the call of its corps commander cheerfully re- 
mained and participated in the bloody assaults at Cold Harbor, where an 
historian has justly said that the Second Corps suffered losses from which, 
though it recovered and continued in sej'vice till the last day of the war, 
it was never afterwards exactly the same body it had been. 

I cannot speak to you with calmness. If you think I can or ought to 
look on the scanty and battered remnant of your once splendid array un- 
moved you arc wrong. I cannot do it. 

Enough, however, have been said here by far better orators, though one 
hundred times as much would be inadequate to express the reminiscences 
and solemn thoughts which this historic spot and our dwindled ranks of 
scarred and battered survivors send surging through our breasts and welling 
from our eye. 

I cannot look into your faces and speak with steady voice. I can say 
no more now, but will express one single sentiment which I believe wiU 
reach all of our hearts. That while life remain for this small remnant, 
we may every one of us, till our last breath, continue to cherish for our 
friends and comrades, affection, love and personal friendship, and to share 
with our gallant enemies of long ago — enemies, thank God, no longer — 
peace, concord and fellowship under one common flag forever more. 



416 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

72^ REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

July 4, 1891 
ADDRESS OF PRIVATE JOHN REED 

FRIENDS and comrades :— The war is over, your legal contest is at an 
end. It becomes my duty as chairman of the monument committee 
of the Seventy-second Regiment to make a few remarks before plac- 
ing the monument in your care. In 1887, the State of Pennsylvania de- 
termined to erect monuments to mark the spots where each Pennsylvania 
command was engaged in the battle of Gettysburg. The legislature passed 
an act appropriating $1,500 to each regiment, and the Governor was required 
to appoint live commissioners to co-operate with five survivors of each com- 
mand, in the selection of a design and location of the monument. Your 
committee selected a design which was approved by the Commission ; it was 
a typical soldier of the day, a youth, for you wUl remember, that at the or- 
iginal muster of your regiment, 1,485 names were on your rolls, 1,200 of 
whom were under the age of twenty-one years. It is clothed in the uniform 
of which you were so proud, that of the Fire Zouaves of Philadelphia. The 
attitude of the figure is that of a soldier clubbing his musket to illustrate the 
closeness of the struggle that had taken place in this angle on the 3d day of 
July, 1863. When the location was selected, it became necessary to bring 
ample proof that the site would be historically accurate. This has been 
done, and the Commission were convinced beyond a doubt that the Seventy- 
second were in line during the cannonading of the rebels sixty yards to the 
left and rear of this spot, and when the enemy forced the troops from the 
first line of battle, you marched by the right flank until you nearly reached 
the north wall, faced to the front and engaged the foe. From that point you 
advanced fighting down to this wall having men killed and wounded in the 
advance^ but in order to conform to the rules of the Memorial Association, 
the position of your monument was agreed to be twenty feet from the wall. 
Some unauthorized persons protested, and when your committee attempted 
to dig for a foundation, your chairman was arrested and held to bail for 
trespass. Then your legal battle began. I would say here, comrades, that 
you were fortunate in the selection of your counsel, for had your committee 
hunted the country they could not have found more true and able gentlemen 
than Captain W. W. Ker, Major W. White Wiltbank of Philaderphia and 
J. C. Neely of Gettysburg. The two former, veterans of the late war, gave 
their time and talents to your case without compensation. Your counsel 
filed a bill in equity asking for an injunction restraining them from interfer- 
ing with us and the supreme court decided in our favor. But our troubles 
had not ended. They said they could prove that the Seventy-second Regi- 
ment never fought in the angle. We asked that a master be appointed to 
take testimony, which was done, and the learned W. Arch McLean of Get- 

*Organize(l at Philadelphia, August 10, 1S61, to serve three years. It was mustered out 
August 24, 1S64, by reason of expiration of term of service. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 417 

tysburg wus chosen, and after hearing the testimony, decided the case ac- 
cording to the evidence and law. They were not satisfied but carried the 
case again to the supreme court wlio promptly sustained the master and the 
lower courts. And here ended the legal strife that has lasted so long. 

Comrades, in your struggle in this angle on July 3d,. 1863, the God of bat- 
tles was with you, in your legal contest the Goddess of justice smiled upon 
you. I now present this monument to the Survivors' Association of the 
Seventy second Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers and the good citizens of 
Pennsylvania of whom you form a part ; educate your children to guard it 
with a loving care and by the will of God it will stand while the nation lives. 



ADDRESS OF BREVET-MAJOR WM. W. WILTBANK. 

COMRADES:— The State directed that the three commissioners ap- 
pointed by the Governor should co-operate with the committee of three 
to be appointed by you in selecting the site of this monument ; and you 
were fortunate in all the stages of the action after that, because your claim, 
that you and your comrades did your best fighting here, was contested, by 
others, and by you made good, before the statue was erected ; and thus we 
may heed no criticism of the truth of this firm and lasting mark of valor and 
victory. Of all the regiments that fought on this wude field, in the battle 
that saved the Union, it so happens that the location of yours has the singu- 
lar glory of an approval of the judiciary as well as of the executive ; and the 
soldier who now fights here in bronze, shall stand forever under the protec- 
tion of the decree of the eminent officers of this country, ratified by the high- 
est court of the State; a decree that here you did your greatest work, and 
that no man or body of men may gainsay it history and the law has placed 
this effigy, and Pennsylvania protects it by her writ of perpetual admonition. 
; You have thus, to-day, done your duty valiantly to your home, as you and 
your comrades 'did your duty in the fight, more than a quarter of a centui-y 
ago, to your sovereign, the good republic. How many of you remain with 
us? And has a new generation come here with you? There were orphans, 
widows, the childless and brotherless made in melancholy hosts by the reap- 
ing of this field in the elder time. Thousands of men fell down. If their 
shades may, by the divine order, hear in symbols the well-known word of 
command, and obey an impulse that shall move their souls through the hap- 
piness of their immortality, the dead in body are alive in spirit about you 
now, perhaps in line of steady march from the cluster of short wood yonder, 
to take up their position ; perhaps in battle array, to anticipate the close con- 
flict that has since told them all its secrets, and it may be to live again in the 
hand-to-hand dispute till the brilliant moment of death. Those of you who 
hav^ the lasting faith must now rest sure that it is a blessed thing to die for 
one's country, that the God of battles promotes to high places the servants 
who for him pass through the valley of darkness. Our ancestors of the Revo- 
lution created a nobility that has bred millions of sturdy men and women ; 
and these in turn gave us for our vindication, the strength, energy, daring 



418 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

audacity; the irrepressible and swift execution, that made, and shall ever 
show, the hardy character of these sleepers ere they slept. 

There are three thoughts that your experience has brought to you no 
doubt, and that we may for a few minutes entertain now. Had you failed in 
the time in which the fate of Pickett's force was decided, so that the bloody 
angle was held against you a small part of an hour, say for only a 
twelfth of an hour, then the day would have been lost. It is true that other 
regiments, at other places in the line, were opened upon, under like attack; 
but at this place the hardest blows were given, the bloodiest and most violent 
attempt was made. From one hundred and fifteen to one hundred and fifty 
guns of the enemy concentrated upon you their shot and shell ; and a whole 
army marched across that plain from the westward, firing as it moved, to 
throw itself upon you . Your second thought is of glory ; one of your own 
heroes has written of your colors, that they were "held aloft till victory was 
won." That grand work was done by men whose names shall ever be re- 
membered. And after the sense of achievement has stirred you, and the ex- 
citement of the great battle has subsided ; after the pressure upon us of some 
struggle m our present days of quiet life, all of us know the final musing; 
the illustrious and the unknown alike must go to earth. 

Whilst it is right that you should mourn the loss that you have had, it is 
natural and good that you should be proud, and in quick humor of content 
hereafter, as you see what you have done ;for your fellows, and what a 
heritage you have secured for the young and the young to succeed them. As 
one said of the ancient soldiers, our heroes were taken away from their 
glory, not from their fear. So pass the memory of their glory to your chil- 
dren, that these may live in prosperity, self-respect and peace. 



ADDRESS OF CAPTAIN WILLIAM W. KER. 

COMRADES: — The volunteer firemen of the city of Philadelphia were 
patriotic, intelligent and brave. You were fit and worthy representa- 
tives of that organization. When you offered yourself to the Gov- 
ernor of our State, you were young, strong and inured to hardship and dan- 
ger. No better material could be found in the world from which to form an 
army. You were mustered into the service of the United States on August 
10, 1861, and Colonel D. W. C. Baxter was your first commander. Ofiicially 
you were designated as the Seventy-second Regiment Pennsylvania Volun- 
teers, but familiarly you were called "Baxter's Fire Zouaves." You were 
assigned to duty in the Second Corps in the Army of the Potomac, and from 
March, 1862, your fortunes and your fame were identified with that gallant 
corps. The siege of Yorktown was a series of engagements; the battles at 
Fair Oaks, on May 31, and June 1, 1862, were followed by Peach Orchard, 
Savage Station, Glendale, Malvern Hill, Chantilly, Antietam, Fredericks- 
burg and Chancellorsville. You participated in them all. You gained in 
them experience, honor, credit and renown. You were tried and trusted 
veterans of the Union Army. 



Pennsylvania at GettysJ)urg. 41.9 

On the 1st day of July, 1863, you numbered twenty-three officers and four 
hundred and thirty-five men. You formed part of the Second Brigade of 
the Second Division of the Second Corps. That was the famous "Philadel- 
phia Brigade," commanded by that equally famous soldier, Brigadier-Gen- 
eral Alexander S. Webb. He was leading you on to Gettysburg, to drive 
the invading enemy from your native State. 

As we stand here today, our thoughts carry us back to the 1st, 2d and 3d 
days of July, 1863. For twenty-eight years summer has succeeded summer, 
yet the scenes and occurrences of those days are as vivid and bright as 
though it were but yesterday. They pass before you in panoramic view> 
You recall the weary march from the Rappahannock, the crossing of the Po- 
tomac at Edwards' Ferry, the kind and hospitable reception at Uniontown, 
the halt at Taneytown on July 1, the sad news of the death of Reynolds 
and defeat of the First and Eleventh Corps, the midnight march to Gettys- 
burg, the forming of the line of battle on the morning of July 2, the attack 
by the enemy in the afternoon, the loss of Brown's Battery, your counter- 
charge to the Emmitsburg road, the recovery of Brown's guns, the wounding 
of Colonel Baxter, the reforming of your lines, the little spring in the rear 
where you filled your canteens and cooked your coffee, your restless sleep 
behind your stacked rifles, and the bright and glorious breaking of the morn- 
ing of the day of July 3. 

Let us pause here, for the scene approaches the reality. Here again you 
see the same low stone fence. It is angle-shaped — something like a huge 
letter Z traced upon the ground , only the angles are right angles — the bot- 
tom line extending towards Cemetery Hill on the right, the center line run- 
ning some two hundred and sixty feet to the front, and the front line reach- 
ing towards Little Round Top on the left. Out in front of these angles are 
two companies of the One hundred and sixth Pennsylvania, deployed as skir- 
mishers. Behind the angles are posted Cushing's Battery and your Phila- 
delphia Brigade. Along the rear line of the fence are eight companies of 
the Seventy-first Pennsylvania, their right connecting with Arnold's Battery 
and their left resting at the corner of the angle ; the center line of the fence, 
from corner to corner of the angle, is unoccupied ; along the front line of 
the fence are the other two companies of the Seventy-first, their right close 
up in the corner ; then to their left the fence is again unoccupied for the dis- 
tance of two hundred and seventy-four feet ; and then comes the right of the 
Sixty-ninth Pennsylvania. There, to the rear of the front fence, forming a 
line parallel with the rear fence, is Battery A of the Fo'urth United States 
Artillery — the renowned "Cushing's Battery" — with the muzzles of its guns 
pointing over the front fence at the unoccupied space between the right of 
the Sixty-ninth and the left of the two companies of the Seventy-first. 
There, behind the battery, and two hundred and seventy feet behind the 
front fence, is your Seventy-second Regiment, in line of battle to support the 
battery. And there, between you and the battery, is General Webb, slowly 
pacing up and down, keeping careful watch over his little brigade. 

This is your position at high noon. The Confederate batteries suddenly 
open fire. Every gun is hurling a missile into the ranks. The Union artil- 
lery replies. There you lie with your faces close to the ground. The storm 
of iron hail is flying around you, but you are helpless and unprotected. The 



420 Pefinsylvama at Gettysburg. 

air is filled with flying shot and bursting shells, and the roar drowns all other 
sounds. The crash is blinding, and the shock is deafening. The cannoneers 
are falling at their posts, and Cushing's battery is fast being disabled. For 
an hour and a quarter, and the firing ceases, first on the Union side, then on 
the Confederate side. The first part of the great struggle is over. 

Now the Confederate line of battle appears, moving rapidly over the field. 
They cross the Emmitsburg road, and you see their faces. They are Pick- 
ett's men, the flower of the Southern army. Again the artillery opens, and 
cannon and musketry are mingled in a deafening roar. The Confederates 
never falter, never waver. On they come, confident of victory. They are 
led by Armistead. He is seeking a place to break through the Union lines. 
He sees Cushing's disabled battery, the unoccupied fence, and urges his men 
rapidly towards it. 

The skirmishers of the One hundred and sixth run to the rear, and are 
hastUy formed on your left flank. The two companies of the Seventy-first 
retired from the front angle, and join their regiment at the rear. The right 
of the Sixty-ninth swings back on its center. Cushing's cannoneers are 
piled among the ruins of their disabled guns ; Sergeant Fuger and half a dozen 
of the men are all that are left ; one gun alone remains ; it is loaded with can- 
ister, and Cushing, Fuger and their men are around it; they move it to the 
front, closer to the fence, and take their places beside it. The fence in the 
front angle is wholly unoccupied. There is nothing to check the Confederate 
advance, save only that lone cannon and the heroic men beside it. 

The Confederates reach the fence. Armistead jumps over it. Twelve 
hundred of his men follow him. They rush upon the gun. A sheet of flame 
from its muzzle, a deafening report, the brave young lieutenant falls lifeless 
upon the ground, and Cushing's Battery is silenced forever. The Confed- 
erates have captured the angle. The Union army is cut in two at its center. 
The Confederates wave their flags in triumph, and again press forward. 

There you still lie — three hundred and sixty of you — crouching close to the 
ground. You know that your time has now come. You see the enemy ad- 
vancing upon you in overwhelming numbers. You know that alone and un- 
supported you must meet the attack. Your hearts are filled with bitterness, 
and you are eager for the fray. You look to General Webb for the expected 
command. You see his lips moving, but can hear no sound. He points his 
sword to -the right, then waves it towards the enemy. You are well-trained 
soldiers, and understand his signs. You know that he wants j'ou to march 
by the right face closer to the Seventy-first in the rear ; then face to the left, 
and charge down upon the enemy. You spring to your feet. Away go 
haversacks and canteens. You face to the right, run quickly forward to the 
Seventy-first, and face again to the left. Your courage is contagious. Some 
brave men of the Seventy-first and One hundred and sixth, unbidden, jump 
into line with you on your flanks. There stand the enemy, their bayonets 
bristling and their rifles smoking. They are waiting for you — for this hand- 
ful of men against such fearful odds. One savage yell that rises above the 
din of battle, one wild and tumultuous rush, and you are vipon them, dis- 
charging your rifles in their faces, beating their bayonets from their guns, 
and tearing their guns from their hands. With the ferocity of madness you 
leap upon them, clutch them by their throats, bury your bayonets in their 
bodies and hurl them to the earth. Mounted on their prostrate bodies, the 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 421 

butts of your guns descend relentlessly, crushing them down before you. 
Slowly they retire, surging back into the corner in the angle. Their colors are 
still flying. They are yet unconquered. A color bearer plants the flag of Vir- 
ginia at the fence, and his comrades are rallying around it; like a tiger Mc- 
Cuen springs upon him, and wrenches the colors from his grasp. A short 
struggle, a terrific blow, and McBride is waving the second flag. A thrust 
of the bayonet, a cru.sbiug blow on the head, and two aouaves ai'e struggling 
to reach the rear with two other flags. The colors of the enemy are cap- 
tured. The Virginians make a desperate rush for their colors. Again you 
are upon them with the fury of demons. Again your guns and your bayo- 
nets deal death and destruction in their ranks. They fall before you in great 
piles, wounded and dead. Armistead has fallen at the feet of your color 
bearer. Their leader is gone, their colors are lost. Disheartened and dis- 
mayed, they drop their arms. Eight hundred of them, surrender. Four 
stand of colors, and eight hundi*ed prisoners. Every Confederate who had 
crossed the fence is dead, wounded or captured. Not a man of them has es- 
caped. The Confederate army is cut in two. Away to your right and to 
your left they fly before your victorious comrades. The battle is over. 

The ground is covered with the wounded, the dying and the dead. From 
the front fence to the center, the bodies of your zouaves lie close and thick. 
Sixty-two of them are dead, one hundred and forty-six are wounded and two 
are missing. Two hundred and ten of your brave comrades have ceased to 
answer at your roll call. One hundred and fifty of you are left. 

To this place, this unknown spot, you have given name and fame. It is re- 
corded in history "The Angle at Gettysburg." 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

73^ REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

September 12, 1889 
ADDRESS OF COLONEL WILLIAM MOORE 

rOMMANDER and comrades: — It is a great satisfaction t6 the monu- 
ment committee of this organization to now bring the labors of the 






committee to a close, by turning over to you and to the association 



this monument. It gives us pleasure, because while the labors of the com- 
mittee in getting up the monument were arduous, and in securing for it the 
position which it now occupies were still more so, our every effort has re- 
sulted in a successful termination . 

In history, the heroic action of the Seventy-third Regiment at the battle of 
Gettysburg remains unmentioned. At that time, myself, its colonel, had the 
misfortune to be confined in a hospital, suffering from a wound through the 

'Organized at I'biladelphia, Septerabor 19, 1S61, to serve three years. On the expiration 
of its term of service the original members (except veterans) were mustered out and the 
organization composed of veterans and recruits retained in service until July 14, 1S65, 
when it v.as mustered out. 

28 



422 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

lung received in the battle of Chancellorsville . The regiment was without a 
single field officer. All had been killed or wounded in previous battles. 
Cousquently no official regimental report of the services performed by our 
regiment in this battle was ever forwarded to army headquarters, or trans- 
mitted to the department in Washington. By strenuous exertions we pro- 
cured testimony and evidence, among them letters from General Coster, who 
commanded the brigade to which our regiment belonged, and from Colonel 
Weidrich, who commanded the battery, and sworn affidavits from officers 
and comrades of the Twenty-seventh Pennsylvania Vohmteers, and from 
members of our own regiment, and others, and were thereby enabled to con- 
vince the State Commissioners of the justice of our claim to erect our monu- 
ment on this spot; and, in addition, we have been permitted to place upon 
the face of the monument a bronze bas-relief, representing the heroic action 
of the regiment in repulsing the attack of the Louisiana Tigers, and, with 
the assistance of the cannoneers and other troops, recapturing Weidrich's 
Battery, thereby greatly assisting in making the battle of Gettysburg the 
glorious victory that drove the rebels from the soil of our beloved State. May 
future historians do justice to the Seventy-third Regiment Pennsylvania Vol- 
unteer Infantry. 

And now, in the name and on behalf of the committee, I have the honor to 
present to you, this, your monument. 



ADDRESS OF PRIVATE GEORGE T. R. KNORR, OF THE 
SECOND MARYLAND INFANTRY. 

THE grand old Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to-day honors itself in 
honoring those, alive or dead, who, in 186;^, with the aid of the loyal 
sons from other States, north, south, east and west, drove from her 
soil the invading hosts. Twenty-six years after the repulse was made, and 
while many of those who participated in it are still numbered among her 
citizens, the State erects these monuments to mark the spot upon which 
each regiment, composed of her sons, performed its bravest work upon her 
own soil. 

Standing upon this hill, within a short distance of the spot upon which 
the martyr President delivered his sublimely eloquent address of dedi- 
cation in 1863, and upon which only a few months earlier the heroes who 
bared their breasts as a barricade between our country and its foes, were 
receiving the shock of advancing foemen, we appreciate the fact that we 
are upon holy ground, though none of us, save those who were present 
at the battle, can conceive the magnitude of the struggle, the scenes of 
carnage here enacted and the saci-ifices here offered up on the altar of 
liberty and union. 

Our special portion of the ceremonies of the day is the dedication of 
this monument to perpetuate the memory of the service rendered by the 
Seventy-third Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, in the great 
battle fought upon this field, July 1, 2, and 3, 1863. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 423 

In erecting a monument on this historic battle-ground, nearly every foot 
of which has been consecrated to liberty and union by individual deeds 
of heroism, and rendered sacred by a baptism of blood, it is fitting that 
some reason be given for such erection. 

It is my pleasant duty to-day to give the reasons for the erection of this 
stone, and the allotment of this position for it by the Board of Commis- 
sioners . 

In a circular from the Commission, we are informed that a full history 
of the command is not expected to be given to-day, but this regiment not 
having received any credit for its services here, in reports of the battle 
on file in the War Department, it is necessary to give some outline of its 
previous history ; the reasons for its not receiving credit in the reports 
referred to, and the evidence on which this position for the erection of 
the monument was granted by the Commission. 

The Seventy-third Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, Colonel 
John A. Koltes, was recruited in Philadelphia, entered the service Sep- 
tember 19, 1861, and was immediately attached to the Army of the Po- 
tomac, with which it served several months. In the spring of 1862, it 
was ordered to West Virginia, but in August of that year was reassigned 
to the Army of the Potomac, and participated in the second battle of Bull 
Run, August 30, 1862, where its colonel was killed, nearly one-half its 
company officers were killed or wounded and the rank and file suffered a 
corresponding loss. 

At the battle of Chancellorsville, so disastrous to the Union arms, this 
regiment, then a part of Buschbeck's celebrated brigade, was the first to 
make a stand against Stonewall Jackson's victorious army that was pur- 
suing Schurz's Division, which had become panic-stricken and was retreat- 
ing. In this engagement the losses in the regiment were again large. 
Captain Harry Giltinan, of Company K, being killed, and Colonel William 
Moore and Major Strong, and a number of the company officers being 
among the wounded . 

The heavy casualties iu these two engagements left the regiment without 
a field officer, and every company in it depleted in numbers. The rem- 
nant of the regiment, three hundred and thirty-two strong, under com- 
mand of Captain Daniel F. Kelley, was in Coster's First Brigade, Stein- 
wehr's Second Division, Howard's Eleventh Army Corps, and on the morn- 
ing of July 1, 1863, left Emmitsburg, Maryland, for this field, arriving at 
the junction of the Emmitsburg and Taney town roads shortly after noon. 
The First Corps, which preceeded the Eleventh on the road, was marched 
to the left, and formed a battle line beyond Seminary Ridge. The Eleventh 
Corps started through the town to form on its right, reaching round to the 
almshouse. Before the entire corps had passed through the town, re- 
verses were met with at the front, and a column of rebel troops was 
seen approaching on the Hanover road with the intention of dividing the 
command. Orders were given for the corps to retire to this side of the 
town, and while the batteries of the division, by command of General von 
Steinwehr, opened fire upon the enemy,, the Seventy-third Regiment was 
deployed across the Emmitsburg and Baltimore roads, facing north, protect- 



424 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

ing the corps in its retreat through the town to near where we stand to- 
day. Bates' histoi-y says of this service: 

As the rear of the Union force was retiring from the town, closely foUowecl by the 
enemy, the Sevonty-tha-d was ordered forward, and charged through the orchard just 
below the cemetery, checking the pursuit and occupying the houses on either side of 
the Baltimore pike. A brisk -fiie completely swept all the approaches and checked the 
enemy's advance. The fire from the houses occupied commanded the streets and tops 
of the buildings in the town, and protected the cannoneers of Steinwehr's artillery on 
the heights above. 

Late in the evening, when the regiment had been stationed on Cemetery 
Hill, a general officer rode up and inquired if there was a Pennsylvania 
regiment on the hill. An officer of this regiment responded, "Yes, here is 
the Seventy-third." Which answer was followed by the order, "Well, 
get your men in line, make a reconnaissance and ascertain the position of 
the enemy and how much of the town is occupied !" The order was 
promptly obeyed, the regiment advancing on the town in the following 
manner: Companies A. F and D through the gardens and alleys east of 
Baltimore street ; Companies E and H up Baltimore street ; Companies 
B, C and K on the left of Baltimore street, and through the wheatfield ; 
while Companies G and I, acting as a reserve, occupied what is now 
called the Battlefield Hotel. At the firing of a pistol by Captain Kelley, 
the signal agreed upon, the men advanced to a point beyond the old 
tanyard, where they were received with a well-directed volley of musketry 
by the enemy, who were posted in houses and the neighboring wheatfields. 
Several brave fellows here met their death. The object of the recon- 
naissance being accomplished, according to instructions, the regiment re- 
tired to its former position to take what rest could be obtained to prepare 
the men for the work of the morrow. 

On the morning of July 2, the regiment was posted in the old cemetery 
as a support to the batteries on the hill. There it remained, watchful 
but inactive, until near dusk,* when a large force of rebels, with the 
famous Louisiana Tigers in the advance, made a daring and impetuous 
charge upon the batteries posted on the right on East Cemetery Hill. 
Before charging, the enemy had advanced cautiously under cover, of the 
houses of the town and the steep declivity of Cemetery Hill, and the 
movement was so sudden that they were already among the guns of 
the first battery (Wiedrich's and advancing on the second (Ricketts') when 
the Seventy-third discovered them, and with the Twenty-seventh Penn- 
sylvania Regiment rushed to the rescue. The hand-to-hand struggle, 
which is so graphically pictured in the beautiful bronze on the monument, 
then occurred, the regiments mentioned holding their ground and pre- 
venting the turning of the batteries until reinforcements arrived, when 
what remained of the Louisiana Tigers retreated down the hill, having 
made the last charge, as a distinct command, which history records for 
that organization of intrepid fighters. 

After the repulse, a new line of battle was formed, in expectation of 
another attack, and several pieces of artillery were placed at the head of 
Baltimore street near the cemetery, so as to command the approaches 
from the town. The Seventy-third was sent in support of these batteries, 
and stood by them until the morning of the 3d, when they were again 
sent to the old cemetery to support the batteries stationed there. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 425 

Bates' history says of the Sevcuty-third's third day in the battle: 

On the 3d, the regiment remained in the position held during the previous evening 
and in the afternoon, while the fearful cannonade was in progress which preceded the 
final struggle, it was exposed to the fire of tlie enemy's guns from a circuit of two or 
three miles. 

The men were lying among the graves, with two hundred guns trained 
upon them, the shot and shell from which shattered the gravestones and 
scattered the fragments around them. When the final charge of Pickett's 
and Pettigrew's troops was made, the Seventy-third was moved to the 
Taneytown road, close to Ziegler's Grove, where they remained until the 
third day's fighting was ended. 

On the morning of the 4th the regiment was ordered into the town, 
which they entered, deployed as skirmishers along the streets on the 
west side of the town until they reached the Charabersburg road. Here 
quite a body of rebels held their ground, and only surrendered when cavalry 
appeared in the rear of their position. They were then marched into the 
town, to the square, and placed in charge of the Seventy-third's resei-ve. 
The regiment was kept busily employed until nine o'clock, when the enemy 
fell back, leaving the field in our hands. 

Captain Daniel F. Kelley, commanding the regiment during these four 
days, neglected to make any regimental reports to headquarters, the result 
being that in the official returns the Seventy-third does not appear. 

When the State decided to erect monuments to the regiments which 
fought here, the survivors of the Seventy-third made claim for this posi- 
tion for its monument, and, after searching inquiry into the matter by 
the State Commission appointed by the Governor, and by the Gettysburg 
Memorial Association, their claim was declared valid, and here your monu- 
ment is erected. 

Among the vast amount of testimony given in support of the Seventy- 
third's right to this position, was that of Colonel Weidrich, who commanded 
the battery. He said: "My recollection of the evening of July 2, 1863, 
is that when the Louisiana Tigers charged my battery, and when we were 
in a hand-to-hand fight with them, I saw that my position could not be 
held, and had ordered my battery to limber up and fall back to the Balti- 
more pike, when the Seventy-third and Twenty-seventh Regiments Penn- 
sylvania Volunteers came to my rescue and repulsed the rebels." 

The survivors of the Twenty-seventh Pennsylvania Regiment, testifying 
under oath, said: "Not only do we not oppose the location and design of 
the Seventy-third's monument, but we unanimously declare that they are 
fully and justly entitled to the position which they claim." 

The affidavits are quoted to show the quality of the evidence offered to 
prove the Seventy-third's gallant struggle on this spot. 

Who has not read Tennyson's "Charge of the Light Brigade," at Bala- 
klava, and gloried in the bravery of that noble six hundred immortalized 
in his verse? And yet the unsung and unpoetic solid squares with which 
Wellington met Napoleon's onslaughts at Waterloo were composed of men 
who showed equal heroism, and that strict and unflinching obedience to 
orders which is the attribute most prized in a soldier. Volunteers can 
always be had from any army to make a charge, be it ever so rash and 



426 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

dangerous, for there is an eclat attached to it, and a feverish spirit of 
bravado will carry a man through a task he would shrink from if time 
were given for thought ; but they who have to stand under fire, calmly 
awaiting the onslaught, knowing not at what moment it may come — to 
stand hour after hour on the alert without action — have the most trying 
duty the soldier is called upon to perform. It was this duty, followed by 
a brave and stubborn resistance when called into action, which the Seventy- 
third Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry performed on this spot. 
Eulogize the bravery of the charge of the Louisiana Tigers as you may, 
and have the poet carry it down to posterity in glowing rhyme, if you will, 
the fact remains, and must be admitted, that the successful repulse of 
that charge was accomplished by men just as brave, and on whose bravery 
twenty-four hours' experience in the dispiriting duty of waiting had no 
bad effect. When the enemy was discovered, you took a firmer grasp 
of your muskets, and with the cry, "Let us die on our own soil," hurled 
yourselves on the advancing column with such impetuosity as to check 
the foe and hold him until reinforcements arrived. 

During the entire battle the Seventy-third "played well its part;" but 
it was here, where this granite and bronze will tell of its achievements to 
posterity, it gave that grand exhibition of bravery which forced back the 
best troops of the Confederacy with heavy loss, and aided materially in 
that demoralization of Lee's army which culminated in retreat- 

God forbid that we should claim the whole repulse for this one regi- 
ment! It was first in the advance, with the Twenty-seventh Pennsylvania 
by its side, but other troops came to its assistance, and New York, Ohio 
and Indiana have their share of the glory. 

Nothing is claimed for the regiment that cannot be fully substantiated. 
Nothing is claimed that has not been already proved before the Commission 
to which has been entrusted the duty of selecting the proper spot upon 
which to erect the monument. 

General Henry J. Hunt, Chief of Artillery of the Army of the Potomac, 
in the absence of reports from this regiment in the War Department, sought 
to secure for his arm of the service the whole credit for the repulse of the 
Louisiana Tigers. He writes: 

The cannbueeis of the two batteries, so suininarily ousted, rallied and recovered 
their guns by a vigorous attack, with pistols by tho.se who had them, by others with 
hand-spikes, rammers, stones and even fence rails. * * * After an hour's desperate 
fighting, the enemy were driven back with heavy loss. 

It is admitted that the gunners of the batteries did their best to save 
their cannon, and that having no other weapons, they seized stones from 
the walls and rails from the fences to use against the foe ; but history 
cnnnot be permitted to give to posterity the impression that with these 
weapons alone eight hundred of the enemy were laid low in the assault 
upon this position. The Seventy-third Pennsylvania came to the rescue, 
and to the Seventy-third belongs the credit, as Colonel Weidrich testifies, of 
leading in the resisting column when he was about to endeavor by retreat 
to save his pieces. 

The Seventy-third's loss in this battle was comparatively small, seven 
being killed and twenty-seven wounded. 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 427 

In September, 1863, the regiment was ordered to Chattanooga, Tennessee, 
where it was incorporated into the Twentieth Army Corps. At the battle 
of Missionary Ridge, November 25, 1863, after hard fighting, it was 
flanked by a superior force of the enemy and only seventy-two of its 
members escaped capture or death. 

In December of the same year it was re-erirolled as a veteran organization, 
at Lookout Mountain, Tennessee, and as a part of the famous White Star 
Division, was in every battle fought and won by the Twentieth Corps, 
marching to the sea with General Sherman, and being present at the sur- 
render of General Johnston at Raleigh, North Carolina. 

The victor J- won, the War ended, and peace reigned once more within, 
our borders. After an honorable record of three years and ten months, 
on July 14, 1865, the vSeventy-third Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteer In- 
fantry, then consisting of eleven officers and one hundred and twenty- 
eight men, was mustered out of the service of the United States at Alex- 
andria, Virginia. During its term of Service it had upon its rolls the names 
of one thousand two hundred and sixty patriots; and of this number, its 
loss in killed, wounded, capture or missing was seven hundred and seven. 

Among the members of the regiment who fell into the enemy's hands at 
Missionary Ridge was Benjamin F. O'Donnell, the left guide of the regi- 
ment, who in that capacity carried a guidon, or small flag. Seeing he could 
not escape capture, he quickly tore the flag from its staff and secreted 
it under his coat. One of the enemy, who had noticed his action, rushed 
at him, demanding "that rag." O'Donnell denied having it, and the rebel 
struck at him with his musket, injuring O'Donnell's hand so badly that 
he is to-day still crippled. The surging of the troops separated him from 
his assailant, and he was enabled to more securely hide the flag. He was 
taken by his captors to Belle I.sland, then to Pemberton prison, and finally 
to the prison pen at Andersonville. While here he sickened, and think- 
ing himself about to die gave his precious charge into the hands of Ser- 
geant Zachariah Rost, another prisoner from the Seventy-third. 

Rost was taken from Andersonville to Florence, South Carolina, and 
exchanged at Hilton Head, May 1, 1865, bringing home with him the relic. 
O'Donnell did not die. After being exchanged he applied for a pension, the 
flag, in protecting which he was injured, being produced in evidence before 
the pension bureau. O'Donnell kept it in his possession until the 11th 
of last month, when he turned it over to this Regimental Association. 
What remains of this guidon, which, with those who carried it, was in- 
carcerated in rebel prisons for seventeen months, is before you, while Ben- 
jamin F. O'Donnell, who- preserved it from capture, is present with us 
to-day, still acting as the left guide of the regiment. The flag is in ap- 
pearance now what the rebel called it at Missionary Ridge — a "rag." But 
how precious a rag, and what memories cluster around it to-day! Comrade 
O'Donnell carried it on this field in the first battle in which it appeared. 
Then it was new and pleasant to look upon. Now, with no trace of 
comeliness remaining, it is looked up to by these veterans with veneration 
and pride, for the scars upon it are evidences of battles fought, of victories 
won, and of the hardships of seventeen months' imprisonment with its 
brave defenders. 



428 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

The ground upon which this monument stands was dedicated by your 
heroic struggle, and by the blood of your fallen comrades ; but the monu- 
ment, reared by a grateful Commonwealth in commemoration of your 
bravery, and in memory of those of your regiment who here sacrificed their 
lives on the altar of liberty, we now dedicate and convey to the State for the 
instruction of coming generations. 

Those who were engaged in the sanguinary hand-to-hand struggle on 
this spot, may well thank God that they are permitted to live to see the 
fruit of their labors in our re-united country with its unprecedented growth 
and prosperity ; they may thank God that they live to see their heroism 
and bravery, and that of their former comrades, thus publicly and perma- 
nently recognized by the State under whose auspices they served the Fed- 
eral Government ; and they may thank God that the generations which 
have arrived at manhood since the war, hold in reverential remembrance, 
and teach their children to revere, those who in the hour of their country's 
need were ready to give their all, even life itself, for right, for liberty, 
and for the dear old flag. 

We now commit this monument into the hands of the Commissioners 
appointed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to accept and protect it. 



THE OLD FLAG OF THE SEVENTY-THIRD BY SERGEANT 
JAMES MURRAY 

COMRADES and friends :— Before you is unfurled to-day one of the 
old State flags carried by the Seventy-third Regiment Pennsylvania 
Volunteer Infantry, during the war for the Union, and I am re- 
quested by the survivors' association to briefly tell you its history. 

Very few of the State flags carried by our boys can now be found out- 
side the State museum at the capitol, and to see one of them floating on 
this battlefield will scarcely fall to your lot again. 

When the Seventy-third left the State in 1861 to join the Army of the 
Potomac, the first State flag carried by its color-sergeant was given to us 
by the representative of the Commonwealth. At the second battle of 
Bull Run, where our brave commander. Colonel Koltes, gave his life for 
his country, the flag was so torn and riddled with shot and shell that it 
was unfit for further service, and was sent to the capitol for safe-keeping. 

The second flag given to us by the great War Governor, Andrew G. 
Crutin, was carried upon this field during the engagement, but at the 
battle of Missionary Ridge it was reduced to the same state as its prede- 
cessor by the hard usage it received while carried at the head of our 
column. 

The one before you was the third and last State flag carried by the 
regiment, and was presented to us at Lookout Mountain, Tennessee, on 
behalf of the ladies of Philadelphia, who bade us protect it with our 
lives and bring it home with us in honor and victory. We pledged ourselves 
to do so. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 429 

Here it is! And now, my friends, after hearing from the orator of this 
occasion of the gallant deeds performed by this regiment, I ask you, "Have 
we kept our vow?" Here waves the flag, unsullied by defeat, having 
invariably led us to victory. 

But hark! The old flag speaks for itself: 

"You have carried me from Chattanooga to Rocky-face Ridge, to Re- 
saca. New Hope Church, Pine Knob, Kenesaw Mountain, Peach Tree 
Creek and to Atlanta in victory. You have carried me from Atlanta to 
the sea in victory. You have carried me fvom Savannah, through the Caro- 
linas, and to the 'surrender of Johnston.' Victory! Victory!! Victory!!! 

"You have brought me back to my old home in Philadelphia ; you have 
kept and protected me ever since, and to-day you have me with you to 
commemorate with your former comrades of the Army of the Potomac 
this glorious victory in which you bore such a noble part. You have in- 
deed kept your vow." 

God bless you, dear old flag ! While one of the Seventy-third lives you 
shall be cherished and cared for, and as each one of us passes away to 
the great beyond, you shall cover his cofiin and be with him to his last 
resting place. It will not be long, dear old comrades, for our ranks are 
thinning rapidly. Time was when you were surrounded by a thousand 
of as brave soldiers as served their country, and whose cheers of victoi'y 
made the welkin ring. 

To-day we are with you again; but, oh! so few, so few. A few years 
more and there will be none to answer roll-call, and our memory will be as 
a dream to these young people who now surround us. In those days, my 
young friends, I trust some of you will give a thought to this day and 
think kindly of the old veteran and his flag. 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

74TH REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

July 2, 1888 
ADDRESS OF COLONEL A. VON HARTUNG 

COMRADES: — We are assembled here for the purpose of dedicatitig 
this monument. We all were here before twenty-five years ago. 
But, alas! I miss many of those who had joined us that time. 
They have been called home and are now members of that great army 
from which no one returns. Others are prevented by sickness, great dis- 
tance or by business from being with us to-day on this our day of honor. 

For what purpose were we here at that time, twenty-five years ago? 
We had not come in our usual citizens' clothing, but in uniforms, armed 



'Organized at Pittsburgh, September 30, 1S61, to serve three years. On the expiration 
of its term of service the original members (except veterans) were mustered out and the 
organization composed of veterans and recruits retained in service until August 29, 1865, 
vFhen it was mustered out. 



430 Prnnf^ylvania at Gettysburg. 

with swords, guns and cannons in order to repel a haughty enemy ; we 
were here to help with armed hands to save the Union and to protect 
the starry banner. Twenty-eight years ago that memorable presidential 
election took place, from which Abraham Lincoln came forth as a victor. 
The South, for many years accustomed to rule the North, wanted to be 
independent, and now came the time of that treason, a more fatal one the 
history of the world never saw. Secretary of War Floyd had the arms 
removed from the northern arsenals and conveyed to the south, where 
guns, cannons and ammunition purposely left unprotected were shifted 
into the hands of the traitors. The city of Pittsburgh made a glorious ex- 
ception. There the people arose and prevented by force the departure 
of the cannons that had already been put on board. Honor to those 
brave Pittsburghers ! The State of South Carolina had left the Union and 
dared insolently to tread under foot the flag of our ancestors. The other 
southern states soon followed and formed that league known under the 
name of the Southern Confederation. When Lincoln took the oath as 
President of the United States, on the 4th of March, he did not find a dollar 
in the treasury, not a vessel, not a soldier. The officers of the regular 
army, mostly southerners, had deserted and gone over to the service of 
those States. A hostile army threatened unprotected Washington, and 
the President applied to the Governors of the loyal States and asked for 
soldiers to portect the capital. They came with great enthusiasm, those 
States' militia differently uniformed and armed. Their intention was good, 
but, not accustomed to the severe hardships of a war, they were soon re- 
placed by seventy-five thousand volunteers who were enrolled for three 
months. 

After the first battle of Bull Run it was seen that the enemy had been 
greatly underrated, it became apparent that we had not to deal with a 
little revolt but with a great revolution. It was not before then that the 
whole country, and with it Abraham Lincoln perceived the greatness of 
danger. 

He demanded and received from Congi-ess after a single short session 
the right to levy three hundred thousand men for three years, and besides 
one billion of dollars. And then Father Abraham called for three hundred 
thousand men, saying "the Union must and shall be preserved." And 
then the hearts trembled and the whole nation was seized with a powerful 
■enthusiasm . His call resounded like the sound of thunder ; like the clash 
of swords and the roaring of the waves, and they came, the children of 
Father Abraham, and so we came too. We hastened- on to preserve the 
Union and to protect the starry banner But the task was no easy one. 
A strong armj% well armed, of excellent discipline and well led, stood 
against us, and not always the luck of war was on our side. The great 
battle of Chancellorsville was lost for us. The enemy invades the northern 
states, plunders Hagerstown and marches toward Philadelphia. The road 
was apparently unobstructed, the Potomac army apparently annihilated. 
But in forced marches we came on, and here at Gettysburg, here on this 
field of honor, we threw ourselves into their way and called to them, "thus 
far and no farther." 

©ne hundred thousand on our side, we fought for three days against an 



Pennsylvania at Gcttyshiiry. All\ 

army superior in number. It was a gigantic battle. Then at last the 
call resounded. Victory! The hostile troops had left during the night 
The battle, the greatest, the most successful battle of the war, was won. 
But it was with great sacrifices that the victory was bought. In yonder 
cemetery thousands are slumbering the everlasting sleep, mowed down by 
hostile missiles. In honor of those dead these monuments have boen put 
up. But also to the survivors' part of the honor is due. One falls in 
the battle, the other dies afterward of the wounds or in consequence of the 
hardships of war. 

We who were so fortunate as to survive that battle and to see its 
results share in the honor as well as those who have gone hence before us. 

In former centuries it was not customary to erect monuments for the 
living. It was left to posterity to glorify the deeds of their ancestors. 
It is only a few years ago that his grateful countrymen erected a monu- 
ment in honor of Herman, the great German Chief who, more than 1800 
years ago, defeated the Roman legions in the Tentoburg forest. But cus- 
toms and manners are changing. Eighteen years ago Germany fought 
that gigantic war with France, and it is long ago since that finest of monu- 
ments rises on the Neiderwald in honor of the dead as well as of the 
living. So also this monument. It is apparently a dead stone without 
language. But monuments speak a powerful language that warns and 
admonishes the living. As that monument on the Niederwald warns the 
French to beware of German blows, and reminds the German youth to 
follow the sublime example of their ancestors and to sacrifice life and 
property in the defence of their country, so this monument speaks too. It 
tells of great heroic deeds and warns all who should ever dare again with 
an insolent hand to destroy our glorious Union or to insult the star-spangled 
banner. It admonishes the youth to follow our example and in the days of 
dang(>r to stake life and property in the protection of our country. 



ADDRESS OF CAPTAIN PAUL F. ROHRBACKER. 

WE have met to erect and dedicate a monument which shall remind 
generation's to come of the deeds of brave men who fell in as 
noble a cause as heroes ever contended for. Some may say: 
"Why this monument? Why perpetuate the memory of the great strife?" 
We might simply answer, "Because we cannot help it." It is instructive, 
animating, reverential and patriotic,' to be reminded of the character and 
of the sacrifices of those heroes who gave their all in their country's ser- 
vices. Even if a quarter of a century has passed over their graves, yet 
the example whicli they gave us must be preserved to us in order to guide, 
strengthen and animate us and those that will follow us. 

There is no need to-day, and here, to recount the causes of the war in 
which those men sacrificed their lives The war was not carried on for 
the purpose of oppression, of trampling upon a section. It was not a war 



432 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

for the purpose of giving grandeur and glory to any one man or set of 
men . It was not a war to make one part of this country greater than 
another part. It was a war that barbai-ism might cease, and that liberty 
and civilization in its purest form might be established by the American 
people. It was a war that this Union might be moulded into fellowship, 
that out of it might be fused all the guilt and all the shame which so long 
stained it. 

The battles of the war were won for the whole country; and the beauty 
of this government shines alike over every foot of American soil. Its 
benefits, like the dews of heaven, fall equally upon every citizen's head 
beneath the flag of our country. The wounds of the war are healing, 
and as you look about you to-day, over our vast country and all its in- 
creased population and its prosperity, we may truly thank God that slavery 
was wiped out, the only cause of dissension that had ever existed. And 
in this feeling of thankfulness we are joined by the people of the South. 
We have nothing more that can divide us as a nation. 

To-day we all glory in having but one flag, one country, one nation and 
one destiny. There is no sectional feeling that animates us on this occa- 
sion, nor do we feel any pride of race or color. We are here as American 
citizens. All races have contributed their share for the attainment of the 
glorious result. The Irishman and. the Scotchman, the Englishman and 
the Scandinavian, the Anglo-Saxon and the African. And, my fi-iends, we, 
as Germans, have done our share. 

We are assembled here to-day to dedicate this monument to the valor 
and patriotism of the Seventy-fourth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, 
exclusively a German regiment. 

When the news of the firing on Fort Sumter, April 14, 1861, reached 
Pittsburg, the excitement among the entire population became intense, and 
two days afterward. On the 16th of April, Company B, German Turners, 
left Pittsburg for Harrisburg, commanded by Captain H. Amlung. Sei- 
grist's company was K, also mostly Germans. These two companies, com- 
manded by Captains H Amlung and G. Seigrist, were incorporated as 
Companies B and K, Fifth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers, three 
months' service. These men formed the nucleus of the Seventy-fourth, 
which was organized a few months afterwards. The command of the 
regiment was given to Colonel A. Schimmelpfennig, a brilliant and thor- 
oughly educated Russiao oflicer, who had seen service in the war against 
Denmark, and in 1848 and 1849 in the revolution in Baden. Colonel 
Schimmelpfennig, made of the regiment a model organization in drill and 
discipline, and the excellent record made by the regiment is due to the 
exertion of that model soldier and gentleman . 

To have been a member of the Seventy-fourth Pennsylvania is a prouder 
distinction than any patent of nobility that king or potentate might confer. 

And, as Germans, we are all proud of their record. No part of our 
population has manifested greater readiness to risk their lives for the 
preservation of our beloved country, than the Germans and their descend- 
ants. In those days that tried men's souls, adopted German citizens gave 
their best blood for the salvation of the Union. The great sacrifices of 
the Germans in the Revolutionary war, the bravery of the German is 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 433 

ignored or forgotten. History talks about the Hessians, that fought on the 
side of oppression, but says little or nothing of the Germans that fought 
with Washington. It is ignored or forgotten what the Germans have done 
for the prosperity of our Commonwealth. Pennsylvania Dutch were often 
scoffed at — their wives, mothers, daughters, were often designated as being 
clumsy, ignorant, unrefined, but when the war broke out, history tells us 
that among all the German women of Pennsylvania, there was not one 
who brought up a traitor. 

It has become fashionable for Anglomaniacs to belittle everything that 
does not come from England, and call England the mother country. Noth- 
ing is further from the truth. It , was disputed a century ago. It is less 
true now. The whole world is the mother country of this land. We Ger- 
mans are not here since yesterday. Three-fifth of the population of Penn- 
sylvania are German or of German descent. 

When the war of the Rebellion broke out, the great fact became evi- 
dent (and the American people are evei" open to receive facts), that these 
so-called "foreigners," that these Germans, whose hearts were thought 
to dwell on the Rhine, the Elbe and the Danube, were head and heart for 
this their beloved land. 

They came from city and hamlet, from the work-shop, the ofiice and 
the school-room ; they came from the north, the east and the west, and 
some even from the south ; they honeycombed the whole Federal forces, 
for there was scarcely an organization that had not its German representa- 
tive. Shoulder to shoulder Germans fought with their comrades of other 
nationalities as well as with those to the manor born. 

It is due to the Germans that at the breaking out of the war the city 
of St. Louis and the largest part of Missouri remained faithful to the 
Union. The first victory of the Union troops was gained at Carthage, Mis- 
souri, by General Sigel and his Germans. It was Blenker's Division, that 
after the battle of Bull Run retained its discipline and at Centreville barred 
the way to the victorious Confederates. 

Who does not remember the names of Sigel, Blenker, Gilsa, Steinwehr, 
Stahel, Schimmelpfennig, Mahler, Max Weber, Bohlen, Koltes, Hecker, 
Osterhaus, Salomon, Matthies, Hassendeubel, Captain Dilger and a host 
of others. Thousand less prominent, but not less valiant, bared their 
bosoms to hostile bullets. 

Loyally and faithfully they served their country in the winter's cold, 
and during the summer's heat you find them inhaling the poisoned breath 
of the swamp ; you meet with them on the lonely picket — everywhere in 
the field you find men from all parts of Germany and from all conditions 
in life. In camp, and on the march you might have heard them singing 
German songs— songs from the Rhine, the Danube, the Weser and the 
Main; they sang of spring time and love, old melodies, they sang songs 
of their native land, also songs of their adopted country — but always cheer- 
ful and ready for any service required of them ; their songs were often heard 
•in the rebel camp, and their meaning was not misunderstood. 

As free men, not as hirelings, did they offer their life for the preserva- 
tion of this land, and thus paid off a long-standing debt. Thus they paid 
old debts to the great patriots who sowed also for us the seed of freedom. 



434 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

Were these soldiers less patriotic because they spoke German and sang 
German songs? Were they as defenders of our glorious flag less valiant, 
were the blows dealt by them less vigorous because they were given by 
German arms? Let the deeds of the Seventy-fourth Pennsylvania, on the 
lirst day's fight at Gettysburg, answer these questions. Of the fourteen 
officers and one hundred and twenty men who advanced on the first day's 
battle, one officer and six men were killed, four officers and forty men 
wounded and fifty-two missing, leaving but four officers and eighteen 
men, a total loss of one hundred and twelve. I tell you, my friends, 
twenty-five or fifty years hence the descendants of those men who fell or 
fought at Gettysburg will be as proud of the deeds of his ancestor and 
of his Americanism, as are to-day the children of those who fought at 
Bunker Hill, or Lexington, and looking back at the history of our time, 
these Americans will wonder that there ever could be any jealousy or 
Knownothingism, because the ancestor of one landed at Castle Garden or 
East Boston. We should measure the worth of the American citizen by 
his honesty, his capacity, his patriotism and his sympathies, independent 
of whether he or his father entered the family of the republic yesterday 
or :i few decades before; our dead heroes have furnished us the criterion 
of the true American, for he cannot be called an American, who, though 
he came down from the signers of the Declaration of Independence itself, 
stirs up ill feeling among his fellow-citizens. Look over the face of the 
globe and find me a powerful nation, and I will show you one where na- 
tional feeling is paramount. We, as German-Americans, familiar with 
the history of the past, glory in a united Germany which stands to-day 
among the galaxy of European nations of the foremost. 

If loyalty and faithfulness to one's country is to be proven by bloody 
sacrifices, then the loyalty of the German to his adopted country cannot 
be questioned . We love this land ; it is our land and the home of our 
children and children's children. We may differ politically, but in the love 
of our country and institutions, we are one. 

Henceforth, your country is our country, your people our people, your 
destiny our destiny, your flag our flag, and your God our God. Whenever 
in the future the country shall call upon her children, we believe and know 
that this dear land shall not call in vain. 

The fallen heroes sleep in this beautiful cemetery ; they sleep the sleep 
that knows no waking, but their fame is as fadeless as the beauty of the 
vise of the sun. They live in our hearts and in our memories. This nation 
is to-day a Union baptized in the best blood of the American people. It 
is a Union that has been tried in the fire of steel, and has come forth 
brilliantly and unscathed. The best way for us to appreciate the devo- 
tion of those who died for their country in the war of the rebellion is 
to make it our duty to preserve what they sacrificed their lives to save. 
The value of a thing generally depends upon what it costs. To show the 
worth of this it is only necessary to imagine the Union broken into dis- 
jointed and discordant fragments ; the States antagonized and inimical to 
each other. The Union, as saved, is the reverse of all this, and stands 
proudly before the world the synonym of national greatness, power and 
glory. 



Pennsylvania at Gcttijs-biir;/. 435 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

75TH REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

October S, 1888 
ADDRESS OF FIRST SERGEANT H. NACHTIGALL 

COMRADES of the Seventy-fifth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers: — 
I extend to you a hearty welcome upon the historic battlefield of 
Gettysburg. We are assembled here upon consecrated ground, con- 
secrated by the blood of our brethren, and shed in a great strugi^le for the 
preservation and maintenance of the high principles of liberty and humiinity. 

More than a quarter of a century has ebbed away into the abyss of 
eternity since one of the most eventful dramas recorded in the annals of 
history was enacted upon this field ; a drama in which you with thousands 
of sons of this our glorious country were destined to assume a role. 

Your ranks have been considerably depleted since those memorable July 
days of 1863, and of that once magnificent Seventy-fifth Regiment, which, 
a just pride of the German population of Philadelphia, left that city in Sep- 
tember, 1861, but a small remnant has remained. To-day you are less 
strong and vigorous, your limbs are less pliant and active than in those 
days, when to the sound of the orchestra of war, amidst the thunder of 
cannon and the deafening roar of battle, you quickened your steps in order 
to take up your assigned position in the line of battle and the never- 
melting snow of years has settled upon the heads of many of you. 

For seventeen years Carthage with its wealth of heroism, its art and its 
navigation, directed by the genius of Hannibal, struggled against the pro- 
gressive institutions of Rome ; for sixteen years the regal despotism of 
France, directed by the genius of Napoleon, endeavored to crush the liberal 
institutions of England; and for four years the spirit of secession, directed 
by the genius of Robert E. Lee, struggled to deal a death blow at the 
free institutions of the American Republic. Hannibal pei'ished in Lama, 
Napoleon died at Waterloo and Lee found his Appomattox ; but, my dear 
friends, when in the lapse of time the names and memories of these 
luminaries shall have perished in the whirlpool of revolution and despotism, 
the vision of the nations of the earth will be directed hither to Gettysburg, 
the bulwark and Mecca of the regenerated liberty of the American Republic, 
and from here the lesson will be taught that liberty and humanity are 
not mere quibbles of the brain or the outgrowth of an over-excited fancy, 
and as we trace the war history of the world and raise in admiration 
our wondering gaze to the human genius, which like a brilliant meteor 
appears in the heavens, but soon vanishes from our sight, institutions 
having for their object the advancement of humanity will live forever, 
and the free institution of free government for which those men fought 

*Orgauize(l jit I'liiladeliihia, September 2S, ISOl, to serve three years. On tlie expiration 
of its term of service the original members (except veterans) were mustered out and the 
organization composed of veterans and recruits retained in service until September 1, 1S65, 
when it was mustered out. 



436 ' Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

in whose memory this monument has been erected, shall not perish, but 
they will grow brighter and stronger as year after year will roll on. 

The ground upon which we now stand and the scenes by which we are 
surrounded within viewing distance, recall to our memories events of 
world-historic note, and in obedience to a longing impulse of our hearts 
we have gathered here to-day to commemorate those events. 

What patriotic heart would not throb with enthusiasm when reviewing 
the state of affairs in the dark and gloomy days in the history of our 
country, when treason hung like the sword of Damocles over the life of 
this nation, when the people of the northern States, in the face of impend- 
ing danger, arose in their full majesty, like one mighty impulse, when, 
regardless of political party affinities, station in life or age, whether repub- 
licans or democrats, rich or poor, young or old, came forward in response 
to the exigency of the hour, and in vindication of the cause of liberty, 
eager to enter into and swell the ranks of an army about being organ- 
ized, without expectation of emolument or official honors, facing dangers, 
exposure and privations calculated to try the patience of the most h«>arty 
and valiant ; and a proud thought it is to know that they fought to a suc- 
cessful ending the mightiest war struggle for human liberty known in the 
world's history. These thoughts and the ceremonies of this day bring us 
into the presence of hallowed memories. 

When we unravel the years which time has woven into our life we love 
to pause here and there at events that have more than others engrafted 
themselves upon our memory. Among others we are reminded of that 
solemn hour when the noble, magnanimous Andrew Curtin, the Governor 
of this great State of Pennsylvania, presented to us the flag of our coun- 
try, when we are reminded of those patriotic words he then spoke, words 
by which boys were transformed into men, citizens into soldiers and heroes 
in the course of a single hour. Governor Curtin entrusted that flag to 
the Seventy-fifth Regimerit with the confidence that you would carry it 
into the thickest fight, that you would defend it to the last, and that in 
your hands it would never be disgraced. To-day we have met here to 
render an account of our stewartship, and to answer the query: Have 
we justified the confidence imposed upon us? The responsibility of that 
trust might well make reckless men hesitate and brave men falter, but 
the Seventy-fifth Regiment accepted that trust, and, oh, what a proud, 
what a glorious satisfaction to know that it fully justified that trust, and 
after four years of war, during which time it has been borne aloft by 
patriotic hands, it was returned to the place from whence it came, the 
State capitol at Harrisburg, unsullied and untarnished, aye! covered with 
glory and fame, and when at times amid shot and shell it may have fallen 
to the ground, consecrating the same with the blood of a dead color-bearer 
(as in the case of Sergeant Jordan at the second Bull Run battle), it soon 
rose again, only to arouse you to increased heroism and valor. The blow 
struck by the enemies of human liberty against the integrity of the Union, 
and the haughty slaveholders' vow that the free mechanic and the la- 
borer of the northern States were destined to succumb to his power and 
influence, received upon this field its sentence and death blow, and it may 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 437 

well be said that the true charter of American liberty was here written 
with the sword and sealed with the blood of her sons. 

To-day, my friend and comrades, you stand, a small remnant of that 
once magnificent and glorious Seventy-fifth Regiment, beneath the shadow 
of this monument visible witnesses of a great historic period. Oh, my 
friends and comrades, were I possessed with the eloquence of a Cicero 
or Demosthenes my tongue would be too feeble to express in befitting terms 
those feelings which at these sacred moments fill my heart and which I 
feel confident also penetrate yours, and cause them to beat responsive to the 
occasion of the present hour, but what words could more adequately echo 
our feelings, and be more in unity with the earnestness and solemnity of 
this occasion than those words spoken by the great and good Abraham 
Lincoln upon the occasion of the dedication of the National Cemetery 
yonder on Cemetery Hill, in November, 1863: 

But in larger sense we cannot dedicate, we cannot hallow this ground; the brave 
men, living and dead, have consecrated it far above our power to add or detract. The 
world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget 
what they did here. It is for us tlje living rather to be dedicated here for the un- 
finished work that they have thus far so nobly carried on. It is rather for us to be 
dedicated to the great -task remaining before us — that from these honored dead we take 
increased devotion to the cause for which they gave the last full measure of their de- 
votion—that we, here, highly resolve that the dead shall not have died in vain — that 
the nation shall under God, have a new birth of freedom, and that government of the 
people, by the people and for the people shall not perish from the earth. 

Those of our brethren who fell upon this field did not live to behold 
the dawn of the golden morn of liberty — they died for us and for their 
country. In grateful remembrance we approach their last resting place. 
Rest in peace, ye noble , patriots ! History will forever accord to you the 
fame and glory you so richly deserved, but to us, the living, your patriotism 
and your valor shall forever remind us of the grand legacy you have be- 
queathed to us. In grateful appreciation we decorate your graves every year 
— we speak of you as of dear beloved members of our own families, -and the 
numerous monuments and tablets erected upon this field to your memory 
will proclaim to coming generations that here upon this field the unity 
of a great nation was cemented by your blood ; that here upon the soil 
of Pennsylvania a new Keystone was inserted in the magnificent structure 
of American liberty by the heroism and sacrifice of her sons, and in mute 
admiration will coming generations cherish and revere the memory of that 
Titan race which here secured the greatest triumph to liberty and hu- 
manity, a government system of the people, for the people, and by the 
people. 

And now, my friends and comrades, we will deliver this monument to 
the Battlefield Memorial Association, whose charge it will be to preserve 
it. Let a benediction of heaven fall upon the heroes of 1863, and when the 
last of the boys in blue shall have descended from the stage of this life, 
and the ranks of the Grand Army have vanished from our sight, then 
children and children's children will twine wreaths of garlands around 
this stone and the babe upon the mother's lap will be taught to lisp the 
story of how and why their grandsires have fought here. 

29 



438 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



ACCOUNT OF THE PART TAKEN BY THE SEVENTY-FIFTH 
REGIMENT PENNSYLVANIA INFANTRY IN THE BATTLE OP 
GETTYSBURG, JULY 1, 2, AND 3, 1863, BY FIRST SERGEANT 
H. NACHTIGALL. 

THE Seventy-fifth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers of the Second 
Brigade, Third Division, Eleventh Corps, having bivouacked at 
Emmitsburg, Maryland, broke camp early on the morning of July 1, 
w^ith orders to march to Gettysburg. Having arrived within five miles of 
that town, further orders were received to advance at double-quick, the 
First Corps, Major-General Reynolds, having encountered and engaged 
the enemy. The regiment upon reaching Gettysburg, marched through 
the town, and from its northern extremity proceeded in a northeasterly 
direction in the proximity of the county almshouse to the west side of the 
Carlisle road, where it took up its position, its left wing leaning on the 
right of the Eighty-second Ohio Regiment. Before the regiment reached 
that position it lost its colonel, Francis Mahler, who had fallen mortally 
wounded and been taken to the field hospital, where he died on the morn- 
ing of July 5. Lieutenant Hauschild formerly a resident of Gettysburg, 
was also killed, after having received, but a short time previous, while 
marching with the regiment through the town, from the windows the 
salutations of his friends and former fellow citizens. It was about half- 
past one o'clock when the regiment reached the aforesaid position, and 
was for several hours severely pressed by the enemy who appeared in out- 
numbering forces from the north and west, while at the same time it 
was subjected to the intense cannonading of several well-posted Con- 
federate batteries, until, on account of the pressure brought to bear upon 
the comparatively small Eleventh Corps by the enemy, the order for re- 
treat was given. Unconscious of the danger to be flanked and captured, 
the Seventy-fifth Regiment reluctantly obeyed, and not any too soon, for, 
in order to obtain a place of safety, garden fences had to be torn down, 
since all the roads and avenues were already in the possession of the 
enemy. Of the wild disorderly retreat the Eleventh Corps has maliciously 
been accused, the Seventy-fifth Regiment at least was not guilty; on the 
contrary, thanks to the collected forethought of Major A. Ledig, who, as 
the senior officer, had succeeded Colonel Mahler in the command, the regi- 
ment retreated in good order. After passing through the town, it was 
assigned its new position upon the plateau of Cemetery Hill, which forms 
the northern extremity of the ridge of the same name, where it remained 
during the course of the battle. In the engagement of the first day, it 
suffered a loss of fifty-five per cent. No other regiment in the Eleventh 
Corps met with a similar loss. Owing to the gallant conduct of the Sev- 
enty-fifth Regiment, the advance of the enemy was checked, enabling Gen- 
eral von Steinwehr, whose military eye had at once recognized the great 
advantage of such a position as Cemetery Hill, to post his batteries and 
fortify himself. The wisdom of this measure soon became evident, as 
Cemetery Hill proved the key of the Federal army during the battle, and 
had the Eleventh and First Army Corps done nothing else during the 



3S^. 




'NFANTRY. 




Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 439 

entire course of the battle than to maintain that position, it would have 
covered itself with undisputable glory. In the night of the second day 
of the battle the Eleventh Corps was surprised by an attack of the Louisi- 
ana Tigers on the northeastern deelevity of the hUl, which resulted in a 
hand-to-hand encounter in which the Tigers, who never before had met with 
defeat, were disastrously beaten and routed. 

The following were the casualties of the Scverty-fifth Regiment at the 
Gettysburg battle: Killed, three officers and sixteen men; wounded, five 
oflicers and eighty-four men; missing or captured, three men; total, one 
hundred and eleven. 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

81ST REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

September 12, 1889 

ADDRESS OF CAPTAIN HARRY WILSON 



M 



R. President, comrades of the Eighty-first Pennsylvania and 
friends: — In almost all human lives, even the most commonplace 
that have reached maturity and responsibility, there occur circum- 
stances, and happen events, unforseen, unexpected, it may be, but which 
have so important a bearing and influence upon those lives as to become 
startling epochs; which stand out prominently, marking them with a dis 
tinctness than can be felt like iron that has been broken and welded to- 
gether ; like hard tangle knots in the otherwise smooth and even thread 
of life. 

Assembled upon the famous battle-ground made sacred a quarter of a 
century ago by a baptism of blood and sacrifice of precious life on the 
alter of liberty, and now santified by a nation's preservation and a na- 
tion's gratitude ; assembled to dedicate this beautiful tribute — a lasting 
memorial to the dead heroes who fought and fell, and arose not again 
to behold the flying foe and feel the thrill of victory or participate in the 
after blessings of peace secured and the Union perpetuated, it is highly 
appropriate, my comrades, to speak of some of those events of the past 
which we shared with them and with each other. 

Feeling down along the thread of life twenty-eight years ago, we come 
to the greatest event which up to that time had marked their lives and 
yours and mine. A mighty knot in the life history of the nation. A ter- 
rible jumble and tangle, and culmination of discordant elements into one 
fearful, sudden, horrifying realization — War! "Grim-visaged war," with 
hideous and defiant front, was on us ; and from Fort Sumter the roar of 
cannon like an electric shock boomed out the story of insult to our country's 

^Organized at I'liUadelpliia, Oftober 31, 1S61, to serve three years. On the expiration of 

its term of service the original members (except veterans) were mustered out and the 

organization composed of veterans and recruits retained in service until June 29, 1S65, 
when It was mustered out. 



440 Pennsylvania at Oettyshurg. 

banner and rebellion to our country's law . How loud ! how portentous ! 
No after cannonading in all the war, not even the four hundred guns of 
Gettysburg pouring out their contents at one time seemed half so loud as 
those of the bombardment of Fort Sumter and Major Anderson's noble 
defense. Along the coast northward it rolled, bounding from wave to wave, 
and all the seaports from Maryland to Maine heard it as it passed, and 
sent it on its way with howls of indignation and curses loud and deep. 
The waves flung it to the mountains ; and whirling around the rugged 
peaks, and sweeping down the valleys, and screaming through the chasms, 
the mountains sent it spinning on — a national cyclone — across the plains 
and prairies, and up along the lakes, till striking the Rockies on its west- 
ward way, with one wild bound the war cloud leaped the intervening 
space and burst with fearful and furious import upon the Pacific slopes. 

With what result? Why, down from the mountain and up from the 
valley, in from the field and out from the factory there came 

"The heroes of the north 

Who swelled that grand array. 
And rushed like mountain eagle forth 
From happy homes away." 

It required but the call of the President and the quota was filled. And 
when Mr. Lincoln saw the need of more forces and made a second call, the 
tide came pouring in, singing on their way: 

"We are coming Father Abraham, six hundred thousand more." 

Among them were those who, joining together, were designated the 
Eighty-first Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers. What a change! what 
an epoch in one's life! Enlisted. Law-abiding citizens of peaceful pur- 
suits and quiet home lives. Enlisted ! What forV to fight, and if need be to 
die, in the cause of our country. 

Four companies of the regiment came from the counties of Carbon and 
Luzerne, among which were some of you. You dropped your tools in the 
mines and laid aside your caps and lamps to put on the paraphernalia of 
war. Some of you dropped the hoe and rake in the field and left the 
plow in the furrow, and bade adieu to the old homestead to seize a musket 
and cartridge box, to tramp in battle line o'er fields of carnage, and 
make furrows in the ranks of the enemy. From Mauch Chunk, Lehighton, 
Weatherly, Lansford, Summit Hill and a score of towns and villages, you 
followed your loaders. Captain Stroh, Company G; (afterwards lieutenant- 
colonel). Captain Harkness, Company H (afterward major); Captain Con- 
ner, Company I ; Captain Foster, Company K ; you met six companies of 
us from Philadelphia , who in like manner with you laid our planes upon 
the bench, dropped the hammer and trowel, threw down our pens, shut 
up our ledgers and turning our backs on yard-stick and scales, from store 
and mUl and shop, aye, some of us mere boys from the school room, and 
following our leaders. Captain Schuyler, Company C ; Captain Alexander, 
Company A; Captain Trump, Company B; Captain Sherlock, Company 
D; Captain William Wilson, Company E (afterwards colonel), and Captain 
Lee, Company F; we met you and organized at Easton, Pennsylvania, under 
the following regimental staff officers: Colonel James Miller, a distin- 
guished soldier of the Mexican War ; Lieutenant-Colonel Charles F . John- 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 441 

son, Major Eli T. Conner, Surgeon William A. Gardiner, Adjutant H. 
Boyd McKeen, and Chaplain Stacy Wilson, your speaker's honored father. 

Together you formed a regiment of over nine hundred strong effective 
men with brave hearts, who were willing to give up the social joys of home, 
the comforts of life, the companionship of beloved wives, children, parents, 
brothers, sisters, friends and go forth to endure the privation and exposure 
of a soldier's life — the weary march, the pelting storm, the lonely picket 
watch, the smoke and roar and flame of battle, and almost certain death 
in a thousand horrible forms — it was a turn, an event, an epoch in your 
lives which left its mark — alas how few remain to speak of "it. 

In the spring of 1862, the great Second Army Corps was organized, and 
the Eighty-first Pennsylvania Regiment was assigned to General O. O. 
Howard's First Brigade of General Richardson's First Division ; and from 
this time until the close of the war at Appomattox Court House, the track 
of the Eighty-first Pennsylvania Volunteers was a track of suffering and 
of blood. If I understood the significance of this monument and the in- 
tention of the State, Gettysburg is selected as a representative battlefield, 
because of its magnitude and importance in the history of the war, and 
its being located within the limits of the State, which is eminently proper; 
but that memorial monument, that crown of the victor's glory, that token 
of a country's loving gratitude, is erected and dedicated in honor of every 
Eighty-first Regiment Pennsylvania soldier who fought dutifully or fell 
heroically on any battlefield of the late war — aye, whether he sleeps in 
un unknown grave, or cemetery lot, or yonder national burying ground. 

And now, comrades, I would that I had the voice of a trumpet and a 
silver tongue that for once something like justice might be done to the 
record of a regiment, which for some reason has never received that public 
recognition which it merited. It may have been owing to the fact that our 
first Colonel JNIiller (killed at Fair Oaks) and his successor Colonel Conner 
(killed at Malvern Hill), and Major Harkness, desperately wounded twice 
and disabled, and other successors in the field and staff, were resident 
and more particularly known in counties outside of Philadelphia, and con- 
sequently did not receive the notice of the press, as did those regiments 
which were commanded by men of political influence or of large acquaint- 
ance in the city. 

Some of you comrades, were with the regiment from 1861 to 1865. How 
eargerly the papers were read with a true soldier's pride. What a thrill 
of inspiration in the consciousness that it was known at home that we 
did our duty in the part assigned us. But I ask you to-day, under the 
shadow of this monument, do you remember in all that four years, ever 
seeing anything in the papers especially commendatory of our commanding 
officers and our boys? 

Well, behold that monument and rejoice at last, for the old Keystone 
State speaks today and her praises are carved in the solid granite. You 
have waited patiently and are rewarded at last. And perhaps it is all 
the better. You are not open to the charge as a regiment of having had 
your ordinary soldierly conduct magnified into deeds of undue importance ; 
your light bru.shes and skirmishes with the enemy into sanguinary battles 
so overdrawn that an honest participant would scarcely recognize the 
picture. 



442 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

But, comrades, while we did not begrudge the praise that was lavished 
upon other regiments, yet it was somewhat aggravating, that where our 
loss in killed and wounded was far in excess, to be comparatively un- 
noted. Colonel H. Boyd McKeen, who had advanced from the position 
of adjutant to the command of the regiment, and who fell while gallantly 
leading a brigade in a charge at Cold Harbor— he was a Philadelphian, 
and had led the regiment into many a battle. But he stood on his merits, 
alone, and with becoming modesty, and the true instincts of a gentleman, 
scorned the devious methods of paid correspondents, or to seek even the 
notice that was his due, and the same may be said of our other various 
commanders. It is a remarkable fact, that with six companies from the 
city of Philadelphia, yet the regiment is scarcely known to have had an 
existence. 

Bear in mind that it was one of the first regiments of the First Brigade 
of the First Division of the old fighting Second Corps; "that corps which 
was always in the front and maintained its existence unbroken from 
1861 to 1865; that corps which in fair fight with Lee's great army had 
captured forty-four Confederate flags ere first it lost a color of its own, 
that corps which under the command of Sumner, Couch, Hancock, Warren 
and Humphreys— illustrious roll— left nearly forty thousand men killed 
and wounded upon the battlefields of Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania! 

"That corps among whose generals of division were numbered Sedg- 
wick, Richardson, Howard, French, Barlow, Birney, Miles, Mott, Gibbon, 
Webb and Alexander Hays ; the corps which crossed the Chickahominy to 
the rescue of the beaten left at Fair Oaks — which made the gi-eat assault 
at Marye's Heights, Fredericksburg; that corps on which fell the fury of 
Longstreet's mighty charge at Gettysburg ; which was the rear guard in that 
delicate change of position and fought its way through the intercepting 
lines of the enemy at Auburn and Bristoe ; that corps which stormed the 
salient at Spotsylvania, opened the battle on the left of Petersburg, swept 
down on and outflanked the enemy's position at Five Forks, and which at 
Farmville fought the last infantry battle of the war against the Army of 
Northern Virginia," and out of that battle of the Eighty-first Pennsylvania 
Regiment escaped of those who were present — Colonel William Wilson, 
Captain James B. McKinley, one other oflicer, thirty-six men and the 
colors . 

We are proud of the record and the connection, and we stand here to-day 
to challenge a comparison of the actual facts with any regiment of our 
glorious State of Pennsylvania, or any other State ; not in any jealous 
or censorious spirit which makes comparisons odious, but simply as a matter 
of friendly rivalry and the interests of justice to all. Remember, for 
four years it followed steadily the fortunes of the Army of the Potomac, 
sharing its perils uncomplainingly, enduring its hardships cheerfully, per- 
forming its duties faithfully. Was there a desperate "charge bayonet" 
to make? The Eighty-first was generally assigned a place in the advance 
column. Was there a forlorn hope to be undertaken, involving the probable 
death of every participant? There is scarcely a comrade here among the 
survivors but I have seen him pin his name on his knapsack as a memento 
to wife or children, sweetheart or friend, aye more than once. Was any 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 443 

part of the line pressed and needing help? I have seen you deliberately 
take the knapsack from your backs, containing the few precious love-tokens 
from home, to which you had clung through many a weary march, and de- 
liberately fling it away, that, unincumbered, you might carry your extra 
cartridges, and double-quick it for two miles on a stretch, close up the 
gap and halting on a run, open fire on the enemy to his astonishment and 
defeat. I have seen you march through mud ankle deep, all day long and 
away into the night under beating rain to reach the enemy. I have seen 
you in line of battle all night long with orders to built no fires that would 
beti'ay our position; the only protection around you an old gum blanket, 
while the snow and sleet smote your faces, froze on your beards, and the 
barrel of your inverted musket glistened with ice in the darkness. I have 
seen you where it was impossible for the commissary department to get 
rations to the front, faring for three days on three hard-tack, marching, 
building breastworks, plucking at the grass and snatching at the leaves 
to chew them if perchance there might be substance to give you strength 
to go on. I have seen you, for weeks together, the only water you had to 
drink or make coffee out of, nasty nauseating hot yellow oak-leaf swamp 
water, which you knew was causing us every day to beat the funeral march 
behind a comrade at the rate of one a day and we laid him away in his 
grave perchance half filled with the water that had killed him. And yet 
you were cheerful. In the name of God, comrades, would any one of you 
be willing to go through it all again for the whole surplus in the United 
States Treasury as a hireling — so much for the job? No, comrades, but 
you did it cheerfully and with self-sacrificing devotion to the patriotic prin- 
ciples which had been sealed with the blood and suffering of our revolu- 
tionary forefathers and handed down as a precious heritage. "The Union 
forever, one and inseparable," "if any man attempts to pull it down (the 
stars and stripes) shoot him on the spot;" and you did so and got through 
successfully, and to-day, standing beside this monument, on the very ground 
once plowed with a perfect tempest of shot, and shell, and grape, and 
canister, and minie-balls, marked with your footsteps in the struggle, 
stained with your very blood — ah, 'tis your joy to-day, as you cast your 
eyes to the top of yonder flag pole towering up above the cemetery of 
sleeping heroes (whose spirits may perchance this moment mingle with us), 
and southward, to the proud cities of the rebellion; and to Richmond, the 
Confederate capital, and to the grand old dome at Washington, and floating 
over every noble institution of our glorious Union, I say it is our joy to 
know and sing to-day — 

"Our flag is there, our flag is there, we hail it with three loud huzzahs, 
Our flag is there, our flag is there, we greet the sight with glad applause." 

But it has left its mark upon you. We look in each other's faces, many 
of us for the first time in a quarter of a century. How marked the change. 
Robust, in your young and vigorous manhood, or in .the early prime of life 
then — alas, now prematurely old, wrinkled, gray and weather-beaten, all the 
more by that early disablement ; not all the government millions of surplus 
can restore that strong right arm, replace that sturdy limb, bring back the 
nervous energy and vital forces, or displace the aches and pains pertaining 
to malarial and rheumatic diseases — and yet, should any of you be in 



444 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

circumstances of distress and incapacity to earn a comfortable living, God 
pity you if you have no hospital record upon which to base your claims. 
The incompleteness of our pension legislation makes it possible, by perjury 
if you will, to secure at least the monstrous sum of from two to eight dol- 
lars per month. 

And right here we want to lift up our voice, and on the dignity and in 
behalf of all true soldiers, put down our foot on and denounce and pro- 
test against any legislation, any measure for a soldier's benefit, either 
now or in the time to come, entitled as was a recent bill presented for con- 
sideration — (come closer comrades, let me whisper it lest yonder dead turn 
in their graves ; lest the Goddess on the National Monument hear it and 
drop that laurel wreath, and the crimson of shame burn on her marble 
cheek) — a "pauper pension bill !" 

But to resume. How little we knew of war in the beginning of those 
four years of struggle. 

How crude our ideas. Do you remember the fears, ofttimes expressed 
with deep concern, when, at Camp California, near Alexandria, Virginia, 
in 1861, when the news of an important victory reached us from the west 
or southeast? "There! do you hear that? Just what I have been afraid 
of — the whole thing will be over and we will have to go home without 
getting a shot." 

Many a time doubtless you have smiled as you read with the eye of a 
veteran, backed with the experience of having stood your ground and 
fired upon the enemy at short i-ange until your musket got so hot and 
foul you couldn't drive a bullet down the barrel, read with amusement the 
effusions and descriptions by letter, of that earlier time. All in expecta- 
tion of something terrible and startling — we knew not what — the imagina- 
tion wrought the most trifling things into shapes marvelous. For instance, 
a letter in my possession of that time with due soberness relates: "It is 
generally believed that a spy was in our camp last night, for, at a very 
late hour, somebody was distinctly heard to have tripped over the captain's 
tent-rope." 

. Our first experience ^n effective duty (comical, but pleasing to recall at 
this late day), that expedition to Marlboro, to guard the polls at an elec- 
tion. Not a rebel soldier perhaps within twenty miles, but we had out our 
picket line all the same. In the middle of the night, "bang" went the pick- 
ets' portentous gun. "Fall in," "fall in." Great excitement. 

"Drummers! beat the long roll." We climbed up shivering to the right 
not knowiilg precisely what the long roll meant, but hammered the sheep- 
skin with frightful vengeance keeping time with our teeth. Rather a cool 
and frosty night, but with surprising quickness the boys tumbled into line, 
and presenting a beautiful picture of parade in undress uniform. The 
longer the enemy put off coming, the more anxious we become to meet him. 
On examination it was found that a stray pig had wandered too close to a 
green picket, who, hearing the sound, (not knowing but it might be a rebel), 
levelled his gun, and doubtless with heart in his mouth, hair on end and 
eyes shut, "let her go." Further examination and inspection in the morn- 
ing developed the fact, by conclusive proof, that the picket's firing was not 
entirely ineffective, though the pig escaped. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 445 

So, it would be pleasant to go on by the hour recalling the education and 
development, and how it gradually dawned on us what actual war meant, 
and how anything but laughable it would become to have a twenty-four- 
pound shell playfully to burst itself in one's very arms. Ah! there were 
to be many fearful experiences and weary hardships, making hard knots 
in all your individual lives, before you obtained, through discipline and suf- 
fering, the hardened, persistent, unfaltering courage to constitute a thorough 
veteran. Very few of you, my comrades, but feel the twinge of more than 
one knotty place left on your person where the minie ball, canister shot 
or piece of shell cut you down, to crawl or be dragged away only to return 
when recovered, and be cut down again. And hundreds of others of our 
comrades, some in almost every battle fought by the Second Corps, closed 
their eyes and sunk down all in a bloody heap ; the thread of their lives 
abruptly broken oif ; their battle ended forever. 

Listen to this record of the Eighty-first Pennsylvania Veteran Regi- 
ment, as published in Bates' history, and produce if you can more honorable. 

Of the colonel's staff and field oflicers, four killed, five wounded, two died 
of disease and one prisoner, and of those wounded, it should be added, 
wounded two or three times, as was Colonel Wilson, Major Harkness, or 
as Colonel McKeen, who was wounded badly in three different battles, to 
return and be killed in another. 

Of the line officers, of which it only takes thirty to supply the ten com- 
panies of a regiment, fourteen were killed outright, one of them with seven 
bullets through him and many with two and three. And as others were pro- 
moted to fill the vacancies, forty were wounded, and it was a common thing 
for both officers and men to come out of a single fight with several wounds, 
and numbers of these also died afterwards from the effects of their wounds. 

Of the rank and file, though there were in all some fifteen hundred names 
enrolled, not more than about twelve hundred men actually reached the 
front, and got into actual engagement. 

Of these, two hundred and one were killed outright; five hundred and 
sixteen wounded, many of which afterwards proved fatal; one hundred 
and fifty-two were made prisoners of war, many of whom died at Libby 
or Andersonville prisons, and seventy-nine died of disease. Total loss, one 
thousand and sixteen; and here is a little band of survivors, which constitute 
one-third the number perhaps that live to-day of all that mass of men ! 

Where is the record of any regiment that fought more pitched battles, 
besides skirmishes, than this one? And one of the proudest things of which 
you have a right to rejoice, my comrades, is the fact that though in the front 
from beginning to end, the Eighty-first Pennsylvania Regiment never lost 
her colors ! On the contrary, they had to be renewed at least once, and we 
think twice, because they had been shot away till but a star or two, clinging 
to some ragged stripes, were all that was left. Where are to be found a 
more gallant and intrepid band of officers than were our commanders, 
from Colonel Miller on down to Colonel Billy Wilson, who was badly 
wounded at Malvern Hill, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, and narrowly 
escaped the loss of his life in one of the last battles of the war, for we 
happened to be looking at him just at the moment the third button of his 
coat was snipped off his breast with a minie ball, and his face broadened 
with a grin of approval. 



446 Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 

Heroes! prodigies of valor! deeds of daring and deliberate sacrifice of life, 
which have never been heralded by writer, nor woven into poetic rythm, 
nor told in song, nor set to music! Where can be found a grander array 
or more numerous, than we know to be present by the actual history of our 
dead comrades, the officers, and especially the rank and file, of the Eighty- 
first Pennsylvania Regiment? All honor to them. Never was a monument 
dedicated to more worthy or deserving memories, nor served to perpetuate 
more sublime achievement than was wrought by these dead heroes. De- 
lightful it would be to all of us, did time and opportunity permit, to take 
up the theme and individually recount their deeds. Reverently would we 
speak of Colonels Miller, Conner and McKeen. Of Sherlock, McGee, Van- 
dyke, Young, Lee and Aydelott. Of Samuel Peters, just recovered from 
former wounds, returning a professed convert from his former gayeties, 
through reading-matter furnished in the hospital, bringing with him a haver- 
sack full of tracts and manfully distributing them with noble words to his 
astonished comrades, and with new spirit led his company to the enemy's 
works, and, waving his sword, fell, shot through the heart. 

Of Abbott, Phillips and Ginder, Patton, Hawk, Hoover, Charlie Wilson 
and a score of others. And perhaps the grandest of them all, our noble 
color-bearers, who knew and looked for nothing else but certain death, 
a magnificent list of names, worthy to be inscribed upon this monument. 
Among them McHale, Davis, Shiner, Parkhill and Murray. Ah, some of 
the deeds wrought by those men, and circumstances attending, contain a 
pathos that would start the tears from eyes that did not quail at the 
cannon's mouth. Captain Hackett, Captain Graham, do you remember 
the lone grave we digged, whUe we were only drummer boys, down in the 
little hollow by the woodside, for Color-Bearer Ephraim Davis, after the 
terrible night-scene of his suffering and death? With an old shovel and 
some sharpened cracker-box lids we made the excavation, and wrapping 
him in his blanket all soaked with his blood, let him down, oh, so gently, 
in his grave. Then laying stones and lumps of earth along the sides, we 
placed pieces of rough boards across so the falling earth might not strike 
his honored body. And we cried and could not help it as we filled the 
grave, and we cut his name deep in a piece of cracker-box lid with our 
pocket knives, and filled the letters with ink to make them plain, and planted 
that poor tombstone at Ms head, the best and only tribute our loving hearts 
and willing hands could offer, the companion of our youth, but little older 
than ourselves, a mere boy himself, shot thi-ough and through the body 
while carrying the colors. 

And there was Color-Sergeant James B. Murray. Where ever was found 
a nobler specimen of patriotic zeal, a more deliberate sacrifice of life. 
Wounded twice and returned again to challenge death while bearing 
proudly aloft his country's flag. Three days he remained beyond his term 
of service, which had expired, and he was entitled to go home to greet 
the preparation being made for his honorable reception. But we were 
facing the enemy at Reams' Station, and he declined to leave his comrades 
in face of a battle. Excused by the colonel, implored by his comrades, aye, 
almost by force stripped of his accoutrements and flag, and driven to the 
rear, he goes but a short distance, but connot break away. His face is 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 447 

toward home; an honorable discharge his just deserts. His back is to his 
comrades and the enemy. Life, honor, home are before him; battle and 
possible death behind him. The enemy charges our works with fearful 
force. Ten thousand demoniac yells rend the air. See! see! the gallant 
Murray cannot endure his back turned for this first time toward the foe, 
and, whirling around, he plunges through the shower of lead and seizing 
a dead man's musket takes his place, and falls beside him, shot through 
the head. 

And there was Captain John Bond, served through the war, and now 
in the very last battle, almost surrounded by the enemy, could have sur- 
rendered and had life ; but, shaking hands with Comrades Ward and Gal- 
lagher, and one other, who agreed together to run the gauntlet from under 
the very muzzles of the enemy's guns, who had overwhelmed our little regi- 
ment, and there was naught to do but yield or die. "Boys," said he, "good- 
by ; they must kill me before they take me," and in ten seconds he was a 
dead man. 

And we must speak a word in memory of Captain Phil. H. Schuyler, 
in whose honor Post 51 G. A. R. is named. His shoulder terribly mutilated 
by a large piece of burst shell, while he is in the very act of assisting his 
dying friend Vandyke. And now knowing he himself must also die, is 
carried to the rear. What sublime resignation marked his death. Several 
of his comrades, former associates in the old Summerfield Methodist church 
choir in Philadelphia, joined with him in song at his request. And, leading 
with his deep rich voice, in the very approach of death, he sang alone as 
of old the bass solo first part of — 

"Watchman, tell us of the night, what its signs of iiromise are." 
And his comrades answered in full harmony — 

Traveler, o'er yon mountain's height, see the glory beaming star. 
And the dying Schuyler, with prophetic vision, saw the star of victory for 
the Union cause rising in the distance, and with the Christian's eye of faith 
saw the "Star of Bethlehem," the hope of his salvation, and peacefully com- 
mitted his soul to God. 

And we may not pass by that phenomena of nature, Reddy McHale — 
That fearless and audacious, freckled-face, pug-nosed country boy from 
nobody knows where. That careless waif, who, it is well-known by you all, 
was deprived of the flag in time of parade because of his personal appear- 
ance, his soiled clothing, always burned round the heels of his trousers, 
his uncombed, uncut, shaggy red hair. But the colors were always re- 
garded safe, if, going into battle, they were in Reddy's hands. Did he 
not, amid that fearful rain of lead and death, and the confusion of repulse, 
not only bring our own colors off the field of Fredericksburg but seeing 
another regiment's colors lying beneath several men, who, trying to rescue 
them, had fallen dead upon that flag, deliberately stopped and pulled the 
colors out from underneath them and brought oft' both triumphantly? 

And well you know, comrades, right out there, not fifteen yards from 
where we stand, he undertook to charge that stone wallalone and fell shot 
through the heart. And so we might go on by hours, not only in honor 
of the dead, but equally brave deeds were done by the living, by many 



448 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

of you, my comrades, who survive and are here to-day. Comrade Winter, 
we haven't forgotten when you, with others, volunteered to drag those 
almost surrendered caissons loaded with ammunition, out from the enemy's 
nose, and under fearful fire, and you did it well. 

So we would like to pay a tribute to every comrade here, as to those who 
fell at their post. They fought gloriously, fell nobly, and are not forgotten. 
Some lie in yonder cemetery, some were taken to their homes and are 
laid in the family lot, but many alas lie in deep trenches on other battle- 
fields. But wherever they are, this monument perpetuates their memory. 
A grateful country carries them all close to her warm throbbing heart. 

Of the battle of Gettysburg, so much has beeu written, and published, 
and exhibited, in Rothermel's celebrated painting, and in the famous Cy- 
clorama, that it is perhaps the most familiar and widely-known of any 
battle that ever transpired iii^the history of the world. This monument 
is erected positively on the very line occupied by the Eighty-first Penn- 
sylvania on the second day of the battle. Briefly, the main facts are as 
follows: Birney's Division of the Third Corps, commanded by General 
Sickles, had been well advanced yonder to the south and west toward the 
Emittsburg pike and Sherfy's peach orchard. About four o'clock in the 
afternoon, they were furiously attacked by the Confederate divisions of 
Generals Hood and McLaws. General Lee had determined to outflank 
or break through the Union left, and had extended his line well around 
our left toward Round Top. Pender's and Anderson's Confederate divi- 
sions were thrown forward in the accumulating assault. Barkesdale, with 
the Mississippians, were massed at the peach orchard. General Wai-ren, 
with a portion of the Fifth Corps, had just seized Little Round Top in 
time, and the attack came on. There was not a moment to spare. Posi- 
tion well secured and held to-day, determines the battle to-morrow. The 
contest becomes desperate. The opposing forces are too powerful. They 
swing round the left of Birney's Division and come rushing up the valley. 
Eleven Confederate batteries are pounding our troops. Barkesdale's Miss- 
issippians break through Graham's feeble line. McGUvery's artillery are 
driven out and the enemy pour round in rear of the Union troops. 

Sweitzer's and Tilton's brigades of the Fifth Corps are hurried forward 
to Birney's* assistance, but are overwhelmed and thrown back, and for a 
time all appears to be lost. At this moment of suspense a powerful rein- 
forcement is approaching. Who are they? It is the division which Sumner 
had organized at Camp California, which had been led by Richardson and 
Hancock, commanded to-day by Caldwell. The scene of contest is this 
field, the then wheatfield afterwards so famed in history and painting. It 
is called the "whirlpool of the battle of Gettysburg." The woods yonder 
to the south and west were full of the exultant enemy. 

Says Walker in his history: "Across this space, the fiery Cross led the 
First Brigade, composed of the Eighty-first Pennsylvania, commanded by 
Lieutenant-Colonel Amos Stroh, Sixty -first New York, Fifth New Hamp- 
shire and One hundred and forty-eighth Pennsylvania, but he moved on 
to his death. Leading his well-approved brigade with splendid enthusi- 
asm, he fell mortally wounded with hundreds of his men. More than one- 
third of those oft-decimated regiments are killed and wounded before the 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 449 

brigade is brought to a stand, but at last they are checked by the weight 
of withering fire from the stone wall (that very stone wall, yonder, com- 
rades), which then as now, lined the further edge of the wheatfield. And 
now Brooke's Brigade advanced from the rear to our relief and support, 
Jind the position is held and secured with the loss of almost half our effective 
strength, the ground being disputed with a stubbornness seldom equalled." 

That is what Walker says of us. We modestly thank him for telling 
the story for us. We are satisfied to take our share of honors if we deserve 
them, with the brigade. We don't claim to have fought the whole battle 
of Gettysburg, or to have been braver or fought harder than others. We 
simply came with a stronger force to the support of those who were being 
overwhelmed by a superior force to themselves, took our ground where 
ordered, stuck there, shot as fast as we could, and simply did our duty, 
then, as before and afterward. The loss shows that every third man who 
was in the fight was killed or wounded. 

Of General Lee's fatal mistake, and Pickett's fearful charge on the 
third day of the battle, all are familiar, and the disastrous results to the 
enemy ; we all recognized the fact that the backbone of the enemy was 
broken. He proved, however, to be a healthy invalid to handle afterward. 
Indeed, we do not all feel it improper, even under these circumstances, 
to express our admiration of the magnificent courage and devotion dis- 
played by our mistaken brothers of the south, in that most persistent, 
steady, brilliant onward voluntary submission to slaughter, never excelled 
for fidelity and only equalled by a like charge and slaughter of the Second 
Army Corps at Fredericksburg. And it was the Second Corps who received 
them and were avenged . 

There is another epoch to which we call your attention, which marked 
another turn in your lives, one more agreeable. It was the morning of the 
9th of April, 1865. In the front line of battle following up Lee's retreat- 
ing army, was the little remnant of the Eighty-first Pennsylvania Regi- 
ment. The scene is Appomattox Court House. The line of battle was 
formed in the early morning after a march of most of the night previous. 
The mists lay in the valley before us. Chased away by the rising sun, 
there rose on our view a commanding ridge, a fine position for an army 
to make a stand. If so, those heights are to be taken. That means an- 
other charge. That means strong probability of death before that sun 
shall set. With such gloomy prospects, and entirely unaware of the fact 
that we had Lee cut off on the other side from further retreat, what 
was our astonishment when General Grant rode right up to our front line 
with his staff, and called for our division band of thirty-six pieces. Like 
men in a dream we heard the command to "march by the flank," and filed 
into the road. What can it mean? Listen! "The star spangled banner," 
and we follow the general, every nerve tingling with a new sensation and 
quivering with the shock of sudden transition. Many a time we had been 
fooled with dreams of home, and had learned to distrust them. But this is 
certainly real. Listen! "The red, white and blue." We have reached the 
base of the hill. Lee's soldiers are at the top, and we are marching up. 
There is no cannonading, no leaden hail, no death. Perfect silence reigns 
among the men. They seem to glide like spectres, each man absorbed with 



450 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

powerful and dazzling reflections. But the music goes on — "Hail Co- 
lumbia — happy land." Around the hill top we march. The web is com- 
plete "Halt !" and the stipulations of Lee's unconditional surrender are 
read, while our hearts beat with a rapture which must be akin to that of 
entering the "Golden Gates." Comrades, can we ever forget the wild joy 
of that happy hour? 

The war over — battles ended — peace secured — home at last. And fol- 
lowing on top of this delicious experience, we reach the city of Washington, 
capital of our glorious Union. The grand review and reception of the 
victorious army of the North is the order of the day. Alas, there is only 
one painful featui'e connected with it. Our dead comrades, our dead com 
rades, who shared our hardtack and canteen, blanket and forage, and fell 
by our side — they, who deserve it most, cannot enjoy it. Oh, that they 
might be here, what a happy day! The commander-in-chief and the great 
men of the nation are in the special stand erected for them to review the 
passing victors. 

Pennsylvania avenue is packed and crowded. Seats are improvised 
in every possible form, at porches, piazzas and windows, until it appears 
like a solid sea of faces on both sides from curbstone to roof top. The air 
is thick with waving banners. It is spring time, and everybody's hands 
are filled with flowers. The atmosphere is impregnated with their fra- 
grance. Fathers, mothers, wives, children, friends are here, and have 
brought roses to shower on the honored, the beloved veteran coming home 
from the war bringing victory with him. Was there ever such a proud 
day? Bands of music are playing thrilling national airs as we march. 
On we go, two little divisions across that avenue in line — all that could 
be got from every quarter, with our ragged, bullet-riven colors still waving 
aboye us, stepping time to the music. Clapping of hands, shouts of recog- 
nition, cheers, plaudits of welcome greet us on every side. Hands are 
reached out to us, and we hear our names, but we do not stop. Look! we 
are approaching the grand stand, the conquering chieftain is there, our 
noble lieutenant-general. We pass under triumphal arches. See, his eye 
is on us — he knows us and all about us; the signal is given, the drums roll 
the salute, the flag is dropped, he raises his hat and a smile lights his face. 
"Present arms." And every sword's point is lowered and every musket 
brought to the front of his person with that military motion of salute, 
and we mnrch by with the band playing "Hail to the Chief." The review 
is over. 

But our dead comrades. Is there no part for them? Ah, yes, we are 
looking forward to another epoch, in which, please God, they'll share. 

It is when the trumpet shall sound and the dead shall arise from the 
dust. "Verily they shall have their reward." May it not be so, may it 
not be so, comrades? See, the old Eighty-first gathering together again. 
From Fair Oaks and Malvern Hill, Antietam and Gettysburg, Chancellors- 
ville and Fredericksburg, shaking off their dust the warriors gather. From 
Wilderness and Cold Harbor, Spotsylvania and Petersburg, Bristoe and 
Farmville, they are coming together; the souls of our departed comrades and 
commanders for the final grand review and reception to the faithful, in the 
eternal city. And we too, comrades, if we are faithful to the sacred 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 451 

dead, and to ourselves, and to each other, and to God, we too, through the 
all merciful provision of the loving Father may join the grand review^, 
when, shoulder to shoulder, as conquering heroes, we may march the chief 
thoroughfare of the New Jerusalem, the battle of life ended and the final 
victory won. 

And while the bands of Heaven play, and choirs of angels sing; with the 
banner of the cross, the emblems of our hope, above us; treading out the 
exotic sweetness of flowers from the fields of Paradise, may we receive 
on every side the greeting and welcome of the loved ones there awaiting 
us; and marching up in grand review before the king of kings, the captain 
of the world's salvation, may it be ours to see His smile, and hear His 
divine plaudit "Well done, good and faithful servants, enter in and sit 
down on my right hand, gathered home forever." Amen; so let it be. 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

82^ REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

June 13, 1888 
ADDRESS OF LIEUTENANT-COLONEL JOHN M. WETHERILL 

FRIENDS and comrades: — The people of Pennsylvania, mindful of the 
services of her soldier sons, have ordered, through their representa- 
tives, the Legislature and the Governor of the State, the erection 
of monuments to commemorate their deeds upon this battlefield, and have 
confided to the survivors of those who fought here the duty of selecting 
the form and locating the place upon which they are erected. 

In accordance with this trust, we are assembled to-day, to deliver to the 
proper authority this complete structure, erected as a lasting witness and 
testifying that it is the place where your most valuable services and sacri- 
fices in this battle were rendered to the cause of our country. 

For the purpose of handing down this record to future generations, the 
same organization is assembled here that occupied it a quarter of a century 
ago. But how changed! Then in the full bloom of active manhood, in 
martial array, with banners streaming, drums beating, with bright arms, 
erect bearing, and all the manly pride and bravery of the experienced sol- 
dier. 

Now the few survivors advance to this well-remembered spot with 
bended form, halting from wounds and with tottering step. Some still 
retain something of the elasticity of youth, but in the youngest the hair is 
sprinkled with white, and the eye, accustomed to the listlessness of peace, 
has lost, in advancing age, the sternness of expression with which it form- 
erly undauntedly gazed into the fire of opposing musketry. 

*Oi-ganizecl at Philadelphia and Pittsl^urgh in August, 1861, to serve three years. On the 
expiration of its term of service the original members (except veterans) were mustered 
out and the organization composed of veterans -and recruits retained in service until 
July 13, 1865, when it was mustered out. 



452 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

Many are missed, laid low by the storm of subsequent battles, and time, 
a more relentless enemy, has more than decimated the remainder. 

We, the few who are left, with grateful acknowledgments to the Al- 
mighty, who, through these memorable scenes of our lives, has preserved 
us to the present, rejoice that we are permitted to assemble upon this his- 
toric field to consummate the purpose which the Commonwealth of Penn- 
sylvania has so kindly assigned us. 

It is fitting that, on this occasion, the record of this part of your services 
to your country should be recorded. I wish I were better able to perform 
this pleasing duty, for no tongue can be too eloquent, or pen too graceful 
to describe the deeds of the patriotic soldiers, who have made this field 
historic throughout all coming ages. 

There is no need to remind you of the 1st day of July, 1863, when you 
were encamped on the line of Pipe creek, thirty -seven miles distant from the 
ground on which we now stand. How pleasant and cheerful had been the 
day of rest, which, after your rapid march from the Potomac, you enjoyed 
in the woods near the banks of that insignificant rivulet. The long summer 
day had ended and night closed upon the scene. Momentarily expecting 
tatoo you were making preparations to enjoy the unwonted luxury of a 
summer night's sleep under the trees. 

The drummer's call is heard. What is it? It is yet too early for tattoo. 
Soon you learn, as out beats the assembly, letting you know there is no 
rest for that night. The accoutrements put on, the shelter tents unfast- 
ened and distributed, the orderly's command, "Fall in," and roll called and 
all accounted for, these are the work of a moment. With brief ceremony, 
the regiment is formed and you are on the march. No one knows where. 
Your brigade heads the column. In the darkness the road is mistaken, and 
two miles added to the march in regaining the right direction. 

Well was it for you that the day had been one of rest — for hour after 
hour through the night the march continues. Daylight saw you still 
steadily advancing with ranks well closed up ; and sunrise shows you a 
pleasing country with hills and valleys well cultivated, the abode of an 
energetic, thrifty and happy population. 

You learn that you are on the Baltimore turnpike, and that your objec- 
tive point is Gettysburg, in Pennsylvania, yet many miles distant. The 
knowledge that you are marching to defend the soil of your State inspires 
additional ardor and, regardless of fatigue, you press on in unbroken ranks 
with renewed determination. 

Hour after hour the march continues, until about three o'clock in the 
afternoon, from the hollow of Rock creek, you discern the cemetery near 
the road, and stretching along the ridge, forever after to be called by that 
name — the Union line of battle. 

Brief is the halt. The reinforcement of your corps, eagerly looked for by 
General Meade, has arrived, and the position of its division and brigades 
marked out before their arrival. Some to the right, others to the center; 
your brigade files to the left, and crossing through the fields strikes the 
Taney town road, and marches along it to the rear of Round Top. Here 
your arms are stacked in line and you prepare what food you can, still 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 453 

wearing all equipments. This pleasant business just begun, the assembly 
call is heard, and again you quickly form in line. But for a short time. 
The emergency is passed, and dismissed again your rough repast is pre- 
pared, and night soon coming on, your blankets are spread for beds upon 
the grass, among the gigantic boulders, under the luxuriant foliage of the 
grove, and grateful sleep, unrealized by any but those who have experi- 
enced a similar labor, ends the day. 

With the first streak of early dawn, refreshed by welcome rest, again you 
are in position. Now you feel that business is to be done. Rifles are 
examined and cartridges counted. So pre.ssing is the occasion, no time 
can be spared for breakfast. A draught of water from the canteens and 
a hard tack munched at intervals as you march, are your only repast, as 
soon in route you retrace your steps of the afternoon before, along the 
Taneytown road. 

The sun rises bright and clear, and the grass, wet with dew, sparkles in 
its beams. It is the last sunrise on earth to many brave men, but its 
cheerful rays banish all forebodings as you gaily strike across the fields 
towards Gulp's Hill. Soon the cannon opens upon your rear. This is 
from an unexpected quarter, as our own lines are between you and the 
enemy, but still you advance with the steadiness contracted by two years 
of discipline and the experience in many battles. Some one orders the 
flag unfurled, thinking our own men are firing upon you by mistake. The 
order comes to furl the flag, as it is not advisable to make too prominent 
a mark, and you soon discover the cause of the disturbance to be from 
the enemy, who, occupying an elevated position, is thereby enabled to fire 
over our lines along Cemetery Ridge and into your rear. Still advancing 
under this fire, in time you reach the hollow just below and to the west, 
easily discernible from this position were it not for the foliage of the trees. 
The brigade is formed in column of regiments — in line. General Geary, in 
command of this portion of the field, appears and a brief consultation is 
held. The One hundred and twenty-second New York is ordered forward 
to this spot, supported by the Eighty-second Pennsylvania, with instruc- 
tions to drive out the enemy from our intrenchments, which they had occu- 
pied the night before. The engagement opens briskly with the One hun- 
dred and Twenty-second New York, and their firing is rapid and successful, 
the Confederates being driven back. 

Then the Eighty-second Pennsylvania relieves them and occupies the in- 
trenchments, the enemy endeavoring their recapture, but, failing in the 
attempt, and after his failure maintaining a desultory fire for a considerable 
time, which is replied to in a similar manner by the Eighty-second and the 
Twenty-third Pennsylvania on your right, and the Sixty-seventh New York 
on your left. 

This is without much result on either side, and after a time all firing 
ceased, and some of the enemy's wounded came and were brought into our 
lines . 

When the firing on both sides had ceased, you were relieved from this 
position by a portion of General Geary's command, and you retire to the 
ravine at the foot of the hill on which we now stand, thinking that for the 
present your labors are over. 

But the enemy, finding himself unable to withstand the attack in front, 

30 



454 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

opens upon your rear with his artillery, tiring, as he had previously done, 
over our lines, along Cemetery Ridge. Nothing is gained to him by this 
procedure, for well you have learned that artillery is more noisy than 
harmful at the distance in which it was operated, and not to be compared 
in its effect with the more quiet and deadly musketry. Finding his efforts 
useless, the artillery fire upon you is finally turned in another direction. 
Your rest, however, is but of short duration. General Meade had perceived 
the massing of the enemy's center, and the fire of his artillery was now 
directed upon our batteries, which lined our front along Cemetery Ridge. 
Anticipating the movement which culminated in Pickett's charge, he de- 
sired to strengthen his center, now known to be the intended point of 
attack. Not a moment is to be lost and your brigade is ordered to the 
center in double-quick time. In almost a run you arrive upon the ground, 
and are posted a little to the left of the center, in rear of artillery, which 
replies, gun for gun, with the rapid discharges of their opponents. Soon 
the artillery tire ceases, and Pickett's gallant men advance to the attack. 

Perceiving the point towards which his movement is directed, your bri- 
gade is moved a short distance to our right, to form a line of battle in 
the rear of the front to furnish a resisting force in case the lines in front 
should be unable to withstand the attack. 

The suspense is brief — the enemy with all his gallantry being but able 
to reach our first line, when broken in pieces, torn and dispirited, his brave 
men regain, as best they can, their position in their own lines, and the 
battle of Gettysburg is practically decided in favor of the Union army. 
Many gallant Confederates remain on the field, and the long column of 
prisoners and their exhibited flags add additional evidence to the successful 
defense of the Union position. Thus the fighting is ended, but the 4th of 
July found you upon the same ground, without shelter from the rain which 
pitilessly beat upon you throughout the day and night. 

Early on the 5th, the day bright and clear, you bade farewell to the 
battlefield at Gettysburg, not again visited by the organization till now — 
nearly twenty-five years after. Marching across a portion of the field 
of the former three-days' contest the column of the Sixth Corps leads the 
van in pursuit. All day long you follow closely upon the heels of the 
retreating enemy, and as the sun is setting, through one of the passes of 
the mountains is heard the report of a cannon, and a shell whistles over the 
advancing force, and you know that he is brought to bay. Your line files 
to the right of the road, others to the left, and, standing in position, you 
await the development of his movements. They are soon learned. In the 
growing darkness his artillery is limbered up in retreat, and as night 
steals on you lie down on your arms in cheerful slumbers, proud and 
happy of the result of the battle, which has driven our enemy from the 
north, taught the lesson that no hostile invader dare with impunity put his 
foot on Pennsylvania soil, freed the capital of the nation, as well as the 
cities of Philadelphia and Baltimore, from the fear of rebel occupation, 
and by the staggering blow which the enemy received opened up in your 
minds the pleasing prospect of a speedy return to your homes by the term- 
ination of the war. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 455 

But many military operations liad yet to be performed before the end is 
reached . 

Time will not permit more than allusion to your many days and nights of 
service in battles and marches. Volumes have been written and will be 
again, picturing the ever-memorable deeds of the armies, ending by the vir- 
tual closing of the war in the surrender at Appomattox. 

On this monument are inscribed Yorktown, Fair Oaks, White Oak 
Swamp, Malvern, Antietam, Williamsport, Fredericksburg, Franklin's 
Crossing, Marye's Heights, Salem Heights, Gettysburg, Funkstown, Rap- 
pahannock Station, Mine Run, Wilderness, Spotsylvania, North Anna, 
Totopotomoy, Cold Harbor, Petersburg (1), Fort Stevens, Winchester, 
Dabney's Mills, Fort Fisher, Petersburg (2), Sailor's Creek and Appomat- 
tox Court House — not all the engagements in which you participated and 
rendered valuable service, but only those in which the archives of the War 
Department certify to your losses in killed and wounded. 

Their simple recital speaks volumes to you whose memory recalls the 
stirring events connected with their names. The enduring granite will 
hand the record down to future generations, who will value your services 
as priceless, when they know and feel that this war was not alone for 
the maintenance of the Union of the States, but for sustaining, besides, 
the liberties of all the people of the country, which, without the existence 
of the Union, could not have been nor cannot be preserved. 

Our military service is ended. Should war occur in the future our 
country requires young and active men for its soldiers. Our part in our 
day and generation has been performed. Remembering the martial ardor 
of our youth, regretfully we feel 

"O now forever 
Farewell the plumed troop and the big wars 
That make ambition virtue. 

Farewell the neighing steed and the shrill trump 
The spirit-stirring drum, the ear-piercing fife, 
The ro.val banner; and all quality, 
Pride, pomp and circumstance of glorious war." 

But it is still left to us, from our military experience, to instruct our 
sons in the knowledge we have acquired and the principles formed in our 
martial life, that the honorable character and military practices of the 
soldier may be familiar to the rising generations, should they have need 
of their exercise. 

But though the physical strength and capacity of endurance of the sol- 
dier is gone from us, the moral vigor of our position, as defenders of the 
flag, gives our sentiments upon every question relating to the welfare of 
our country, a stronger claim for acceptance to all, both young and old. 

It will, in this view, not be considered presumptions to remind the 
people of the State and Nation, that principle for which you fought was the 
"Union of the States," and to say that though the Union was attacked 
during the late war upon the pretext of the preservation of the institution 
of slavery, that hereafter the furtherance of some other object, popular with 
large portions of the people, may be made by designing and ambitious men 
the ostensible reason for its attempted overthrow. And let us remind them 
that the Union, founded on popular attachment to its principles, will be 



456 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

constantly imperilled, unless a sentiment of kindly and fraternal feeling 
exists among all classes of our citizens, whatever may be their business pur- 
suits or means of livelihood. 

In furtherance of these views, therefore, let us endeavor by our counsels 
to hasten the day when every shade of bitterness between the North and 
the South, shall have passed away, so that, if not in the present, at least in 
the next generation, if possible, nothing of the incidents of the war be 
remembered without regret, except the achievements of the soldiers of both 
armies. And let us teach that their achievements are the common herit- 
age and glory of all the people of all sections of the country. 
* And let us not forget to say, that the men of the North fought for the 
Union, not for our section alone, but that its benefits and blessings should 
belong to and be the heritage of the whole country, south and north, as 
well for those who fought against it ; and that the surrender at Appomattox 
established popular liberty for the whole country, as well for them as 
for us. 

So that future generations though remembering, with pride the gallant 
achievements of their southern ancestors on this and other fields, will yet 
regard as a blessing their defeat as securing to all (by the preservation of 
the Union), the inestimable boon of personal and political liberty, and the 
right to manage their own domestic affairs subject only to the necessary 
restraints of the Federal Constitution. 

And we, too, the people of the North, will claim a part of the glory 
of the deeds of our then enemies (not so now). For with our country 
fully reunited, their achievements will be recognized as the work of the 
American nation, and the sons of the North will claim a share of the 
glory of the Confederate conduct of battle, as well as the southern born, 
for its gallantry was the heroism of the people of the United States, and 
as such it belongs to all, the North as well as the South. 

Then shall we in all sincerity feel that "we are not enemies but friends. 
We must not be enemies. Though passion may have strained, it has not 
burst the bonds of our affection. The mystic chords of memory stretching 
from every battlefield and every patriot's grave to every heart and hearth- 
stone all over this broad land, have swelled the chorus of the Union, 
touched as they have been by the better angels of our nature." 

And now, resting on the field to-day, we view, after twenty-five years 
of absence, the scene of one of the most glorious achievements of your 
youth. The distant hills and mountains present the same appearance as 
they did a quarter of a century since ; but how altered the rest ! In place 
of the long lines and glittering musketry of the infantry, the booming of 
cannon, whistling of bullets and the galloping clang of horsemen, we look 
upon a gladdening scene of husbandry. The fields are covered with 
grain, and the cheerful cry of the farmer to his team has supplanted the 
stern and determined military command. The ring of the mower's instru- 
ment takes the place of the clang of the military sabre. The puff of the 
locomotive supplants the smoke of the cannon, and its whistle, the booming 
of the discharge. 

On the spot in the rear of Round Top (where you rested among the 
boulders from your tired march of the night of the first of July) is heard 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 457 

among the trees, when summer sunshine renders cheerful days, the pleasing 
harmonies of the flute and viol, and youths and maidens lightly trip the 
mazy dance or whirl the affectionate waltz. On the ridge fronting your 
position flourishes the grape, and the wine pressed upon the spot cheers 
the heart alike of Union and Confederate, as they view the place of 
their former exploits. 

Pleased, we survey the scene, for this spectacle, the epitome of our coun- 
try's prosperity, in agriculture, manufactures, and social life, is your work. 
Without your victories on this and other fields the Union, the source of this 
hiippiness of all, would be a thing of the past, and desolation have taken 
the place of the cheerfulness we now behold. 

Let them the dancers, as they wind their graceful movements, give one 
thought to the tired men, who, a quarter of a century ago, so soundly slept 
upon and gallantly defended the place of their present festivities, and the 
traveler, who, viewing the battlefield, pauses in his survey for a goblet 
of native wine, remember the soldier parched and thirsty from the dust 
and smoke of battle, who, no matter whether he fought on the right or the 
wrong side, whether he wore the blue or gray, still sacrificed himself for 
a patriotic sentiment, and in regretful memory of the past "Quaff a cup 
to the dead already," and, thankful for the present one, to "the health 
of the next man that dies." 



ADDRESS OF CAPTAIN G. W. WATERHOUSE 

COMRADES: — For a quarter of a century the summer's sun has shone, 
and the winter's snows have fallen upon this historic spot since that 
event in the past which we of the present come to-day to emphasize 
to the future, by the dedication of this historic stone. 

To-day, surrounded by all the blessings of peace, it is my privilege to 
extend to you, my comrades, a heartfelt greeting, on the ground where in 
deadly fray we were gathered so many years ago ; and where so many of 
our comrades gave testimony to their loyalty to the land of their birth 
and adoption, by baptizing this soil with their blood. 

What memories! Memories that time has but made more hallowed, 
crowd upon us, as we are here assembled, in this work of love! How that 
toilsome march of thirty-seven miles, under the hot sun of the 2d of July, 
oome vividly back to us, ending as it did with our arrival on the battle- 
field at about one o'clock in the afternoon. 

How well old uncle John Sedgwick kept his word to the commander of_ 
the Army of the Potomac, when he promised him to have the Sixth Corps on 
the field of Gettysburg at two o'clock, you all know. How well we re- 
member our first assignment to position in the rear of the Third Corps, 
and our movement later on the next day to this spot on which we now 
stand, where we relieved the gallant Geary's boys, supporting the Twelfth 
Corps ; and in that fearful conflict which made Gulp's Hill historic ground . 

I might go on for some time and try to recall other facts ; but our time 



458 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

is limited to a space. And now, my comrades, our duties for this occa- 
sion are done, our mission performed. This will be the Mecca to which 
our thoughts and our footsteps, as long as life is with us, will ever tend, 
and may future generations, looking upon this stone, learn lessons of loyalty 
which will lead them to strive to emulate the patriotism and devotion of 
those who had the honor to be known as the Eighty-second Regiment of 
Pennsylvania Volunteers, Shaler's Brigade, Wheaton's Division, Sedg- 
wick's Corps, Army of the Potomac. 



REMARlvS OF CORPORAL WILLIAM H. REDHEFFER, SECRE- 
TARY OF THE EIGHTY-SECOND ASSOCIATION OF 
PENNSYLVANIA VOLUNTEERS. 

COMRADES: — When a proper history of the grand old A7-my of the 
Potomac, of its many severe struggles, marches and hard-fought 
battles to get possession of its great objective point — Richmond — 
and the heroic deeds of its valorous commanders and soldiers, shall have 
been written, no one name of that galaxy of heroes will stand out brighter 
or more prominent than that of George Gordon Meade. 

That grand old army that was so often out-generaled, and whose com- 
manders were so often out-manoeuvered, but whose soldiers were never 
whipped. You all remember the Peninsular Campaign under that (then) 
idol of the army, McClellan, with our marches and counter-marches, fa- 
tigues, hardships and battles, and our many reverses, and yet the old army 
was never defeated, discomfited or discouraged. These to be succeeded 
by the Maryland Campaign, under the old commander, McClellan, with 
Antietam and the various other victorious battles — to be succeeded in turn 
by Burnside and the reverses at Fredericksburg, and the "Mud March," 
with the toils, hardships and privations incident to those compaigns ; and 
then "Fighting Joe" Hooker, with Chancellorsville, Marye's Heights and 
Salem Church ; to be followed by the second invasion of Maryland and 
the penetration of the loyal soil of our own State of Pennsylvania. Y"ou, 
comrades of the old "Shaler's Brigade," remember how, in the latter part 
of June, 1863, while on the march, we were informed of the displacement 
of Hooker and the substitution of that grandest of all our commanders. 
General Meade, to the command of our grand old army. You remember, 
too, the grumblings and feelings of disappointment and distrust amongst 
the rank and file at the placing of, as we then thought, a new man at the 
head of the army, and one who was then comparatively unknown beyond 
the limits of his own (Fifth) corps. 

The first day's fight at Gettysburg, the fall of that gallant soldier, Rey- 
nolds, and the sending for our division commander, Newton, to go to the 
front, to take Reynolds' place, in command of his corps, are still fresh in 
your minds. You remember, also, the night march of the first day of the 
fight, to reach the field of battle in time to take part therein. Wherever 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 459 

the nation most needed a soldier, there some of the grand old Sixth Corps 
were sent. 

After our victory here at Gettysburg, then the chai'ge at Funkstown, and 
the driving of the rebels from our soil, and the ending of the Pennsylvania 
campaign. None of us who took part in that battle knew of the anxious 
days in Philadelphia, Washington, Baltimore and New York, nor of the 
many sleepless nights passed by the people of those cities during that 
time ; and not until it was known that the grand old invincible Army 
of the Potomac was confronting Lee and his hosts was confidence re- 
stored . 

This victory at Gettysburg was the first step in the disruption and down- 
fall of the so-called Southern Confederacy. After that the old foe of our 
array fought on the defensive. No more olfensive campaigns; no more in- 
vasions of Penn.sylvania or Maryland were attempted by them. To have lost 
at Gettysburg meant the imperilling and possible capture of Washington, 
Philadelphia, Baltimore and perhaps New York City, and the recognition of 
the Southern Confederacy by foreign powers. These catastrophes would 
have prolonged the war for years and left the end in doubt. Of course, this 
is mere conjecture or speculation, but it is the sort of thing indulged in in 
everyday life, and is pardonable here. 

General Meade was, to my mind, the greatest soldier and general that ever 
commanded our old Army of the Potomac. He was a soldier by instinct and 
education; one of sound judgment and good hard common sense. You must 
remember that the battle of Gettysburg, the best fought and most decisive in 
results of the war, was fought within less than one week after he had as- 
sumed command of the army. We were on the mai'ch for somewhere, wher- 
ever Lee's army might be. But where were they? That was the question. 
Like the true soldier that he was, Meade took command, and within less 
than one week thereafter, fought the hardest battle of the war, with the 
most glorious results. General Meade was no hurrah soldier; he was a sol 
dier in the strongest acceptation of the term ; and I do not wish to detract 
from the merits of any of the other heroes of the war when I repeat that to 
my mind — a soldier in the ranks — he was the greatest strategist, fighter 
and soldier that ever commanded our army. There have been other claim- 
ants for the honor of having selected the position for the battle of Gettys- 
burg, and some have boldly asserted that Meade had nothing to do with it, 
while others, in their claim, would almost make one think that Meade 
wasn't in the fight at all. 

When Meade took command, our army was acting on the defensive. We 
were after our old foe, Lee; but where he was at that time, no one knew. 
Therefore, Meade was obliged to move cautiously and feel his way gradually. 
But, when Buford discovered the enemy's whereabouts, and the gallant Rey- 
nolds, soldier-like, obeyed the soldier instinct and marched his column to- 
ward the sound of the guns, and fell, covered with glory, then Meade knew 
where Lee was, and immediately ordered his entire army to the scene of con- 
flict, Gettysburg. His instructions to Hancock, of July 1, were, "That you 
proceed to the front, and by virtue of this order, in case of Reynolds' death 
(as reported) you assume command of the corps there assembled ;" and he fur- 
ther said, "In case the ground and position are better for a fight than the one 



460 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

heretofore selected (Pipe creek), you will advise me and I will order all the 
troops up." Hancock reported, and Meade ordered all the troops up at 
once and arrived on the field in person shortly after midnight. Now, if 
General Meade did not select the site for that battle, who did? Surely, no 
one Avill argue but that as general commanding, he could, after the first 
day's fight, have withdrawn the army to Pipe creek or elsewhere, if he so 
choose, and fought his battle. Meade's instructions to Hancock connot be 
mistaken or misunderstood, read them as we will. He said, "If you think 
the ground and position (at Gettysburg) a better one on which to fight- a 
battle * * * so advise me, and I will order all the troops up." If 
he had not have intended to give battle to the enemy, wherever he found 
him, with advantages always in our favor, wouldn't he have ordered a 
retreat, even after Hancock's report, and fought on ground of his own 
selection? Most assuredly. 

Meade intended to fight, not retreat; and he fought with results well 
known to us all. And the future historian, in reviewing the many battles of 
the rebellion, and the soldiers that participated therein, will I feel satisfied, 
accord to General Meade the full merit and praise that he earned, and to 
which he is so justly entitled. 

I have always believed that Divine Providence had much to do with the 
selection of General Meade as our commander at that buttle. We could 
have afforded and did suffer reverses in many of our battles without serious 
effect, but supposing we had been defeated there, then what? 

I have no words of condemnation or censure, nor do I say it in a spirit of 
fault-finding, but I think a mistake was made in not naming General Meade 
for the lieutenant-generalcy . I don't say this out of any disrespect, or to de- 
tract from the laurels of the soldier that was named for that position — for I 
consider him one of the ablest of our generals. That Meade was a great 
and safe soldier, thoroughly efficient and competent in every respect, was at- 
tested to by General Grant himself, in I'etaining him as commander of the 
Army of the Potomac. He ably aided and seconded Grant in his plans and 
campaigns, which culminated in the defeat of Lee's army, and the over- 
throw of the rebellion ; and if he had not have been a true soldier. Grant 
would not have tolerated him for a moment. And the strongest argument 
that I can make in support of my assertion of the slight put upon Meade, is 
this action of Grant's in retaining him in command of our army as he did. 

After a while, those who follow after us will write a correct history of our 
deeds, without fear, favor or affection, and without passion or prejudice. 
Then I am satisfied that full justice will be done the name of General Meade, 
and his name will stand out boldly in the front rank with the other heroes of 
the Union armies that took part in the war of the rebellion. 

The gatherings of old soldiers on old battlefields should be encouraged, 
not only by the soldiers who took part in them, but by the people at large, as 
they serve to keep alive the old fraternal feelings between old comrades-at- 
arms, and stimulate the rising generation to emulate the example of their 
sires, and fosters and kindles in the breast of the young a proper spirit of 
patriotism and love of country ; so that in the future, should our country's 
life ever again be imperiled, they will spring to her defense with the same 
spirit and as gallantly as did their fathers before them. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 461 

Comrades, some of us who meet here upon this occasion, may, perhaps, 
never attend such another gathering. We are getting old and others must 
take our places. Let our actions be such that we would have our children 
emulate them. Let us do no act or say one word the recital of which would 
wound the feelings of others or cause pain to ourselves. Let our every-day 
lives be living examples of probity, honor and rectitude, for our children and 
our children's children. 

Comrades, I am done. That God, in his infinite wisdom, may guide us all 
in the future as he has in the past, is my earnest prayer. 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

83^^ REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

September 11, 1889 

ADDRESS OF COLONEL D. C. McCOY 

COMRADES: — When some years ago the proposition was first made in 
our association to erect, on this historic field, a memorial in honor of 
those who here fought and fell, it was well-understood that there 
would be difficulties to meet and obstacles to overcome. When a committee 
was appointed to carry out the project, it was known that the duties and 
labors of the committee would be various and arduous, requiring a consider- 
able sacrifice of time ; but it was manifestly proper that the idea should be 
carried out, and that the monument so erected should have inscribed upon it 
the names of those who here gave their lives in defense of our government 
against the assaults of armed treason. It was also fitting that such a me- 
morial shaft should be surmounted by a statue of our leader, the gifted, 
genial, gallant Vincent, who here, with the others named, gave his young 
life,. with all its future bright prospects, a sacrifice upon the altar of his 
country . 

After years of effort on your part, and after considerable progress had 
been made, the State of Pennsylvania came to your aid, and made the suc- 
cess of the undertaking not only possible but readily practicable, and to-day 
we behold in this beautiful monument the end of your labors a\id the con- 
summation of our desires. 

Gentlemen, you have done your work, and you have done it well, and I 
here, and now, as the president and representative of the Association of the 
Eighty-third Regiment of Pennsylvania Volunteers accept at your hands this 
monument, and in doing so I know that I voice the sentiment of every mem- 
ber of the association, when I tender you, as I now do, our most sincere and 
heartfelt thanks for your assiduous and successful labors in this behalf. 

And, while we realize that tlie heroes who this monument commemorates. 



*Organized at Ei-ie, Scjitember 13, 1861, to serve three years. On the expiration of its 
term of service the original members (except veterans) were mustered out and the 
veterans and recruits consolidated into a battalion of six Cos. Four new Cos. were 
organized from January 28 to March 9, 1865, to serve one and three years and the 
organization retained in service until June 2S, 1866, when it was mustered out. 



462 Pennsylvania at Gettijshurg. 

sacrificed their lives on the soil of Pennsylvania in repelling from her borders 
an invading foe, with treason to her institutions and spoil of her property in- 
scribed upon its banners, and that some tribute to their memory on the part 
of the Commonvv^ealth seems to be not only proper but also demanded, yet, 
after all this, for the timely and generous donation made by it, the State of 
Pennsylvania deserves, and is hereby tendered, the warmest thanks of the 
association . 

We, therefore, now dedicate this monument and the statue with which it is 
adorned, to the purpose for which they were erected, as set forth in the sev- 
eral inscriptions thereon. We further, now turn it over to the custody and 
care of the monumental association here having jurisdiction, and have only 
to add that we are proud of the work which we present, and proud of what it 
commemorates: We present it with the hope and expectation that it will 
remain as long as the institutions in defense of which the men named upon 
it died, are respected and revered; and as long as those institutions shall en- 
dure, as the evidence "that these dead have not died in vain." 



W 



ADDRESS OF LIEUTENANT O. W. NORTON. 

HAT man is there of all this assembly whose thought does not go back 
to-day in tender remembrance of one or more of those four hundred 
and thirty brave hearts who gave up their lives on some one of these 
thirty-one battlefields, from Yorktown to Appomattox, or in some hospital, 
where, after the battle, he was carried, suffering from wounds that made 
him envy the fate of comrades to whom the instant summons came with the 
sharp crack of the rebel rifle or the shriek of the bursting shell? 

Is there one who has not some morning shared his coffee and hard tack 
with a dear friend; gone on the cold and muddy march, or along the dusty 
weary way with him, laughing, chatting, singing the old marching songs to 
lighten the step, and at night, after the battle, lain down alone in the 
bivouac, the voice of that comrade hushed forever, his body only waiting 
to be laid with other fallen heroes in that long trench? 

Is there one who has not been appealed to by the wife, the mother or the 
sister of the dear one, for something more definite than the brief official re- 
port, "Killed at Gaines' Mill ;" "Killed at Malvern Hill ;" "Killed at Gettys- 
burg?" 

Is there one whose heart has not bled with sympathy for the friends of his 
comrade, strangers to him perhaps, as seated under his shelter-tent with a 
cracker-box for a table, he tried to write something that would comfort the 
sad hearts, telling how bright and cheerful their dear one had been that last 
day ; how gloriously he fought until struck down ; how often he had spoken 
of the loved ones at home, and asked in the phase that put death far away, 
that they might be written to if "anything happened to him?" 

Have the years that have passed since, brought to us any stronger friend- 
ships than those formed by us who "drank from the same canteen?" Those 
were glorious days, when, the blood of youth coursing through our veins, we 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 463 

consecrated ourselves to the stars and stripes, and devoted our lives to the 
preservation of the government of the people, by the people and for the 
people. We were all willing to die if need be. Some were taken and others 
left. 

It is meet that we come to this holy ground, consecrated to freedom by the 
life-blood of a host of fallen comrades, and bring our wives, our sons and 
daughters, that with us they may feel the spirit of this place, may know 
what here their fathers did, and what their mothers, whose hearts were on 
this field, suffered, and while we renew our vow of undying allegiance to the 
government saved by blood, make their vow to preserve it when we have 
gone to joint our comrades. 

What shall we say to-day of those who fell in the struggle? A year would 
not be long enough to mention by name the more than forty men of each com- 
pany, and recount the glorious deeds of each. Military rank was an acci- 
dent or incident of the service. It has perished. Privates, corporals, cap- 
tains, colonels, are melted into an army of heroes. Each did his duty in his 
place, and has gone to his reward. We, privates and ofBcers, meet to-day 
with rank abolished, and as citizens and heirs of the rich inheritance they 
left us, honor their memory. 

Each of us has in his heart the memory of some comrade who fell, dear to 
him, but perhaps unknown to most of the twenty-two hundred and seventy 
men, who, from first to last make up the Eighty-third. Not four years of 
service could suffice to make all the men of the regiment personally known to 
each other, but that service did suffice to inspire in the heart of every mem- 
ber a feeling of security and invincibility in the line of battle, when, stand- 
ing to defend, or advancing to attack, he knew that the men on his right and 
left wore on their caps those silver letters "83 P. V.," and that touching 
elbows with the last one on the flank was that other one of "Butterficld's 
twins," the Forty-fourth New York. 

Some few of the hundreds who fell, by reason of official position, came into 
personal relation with all. Is there one here to-day of the thousand stalwart 
bayonets who followed the gallant McLane across the Long Ridge on the 
first entrance of the Eighty-third into Virginia, who can ever forget him, or 
cease to mourn his untimely fate? His noble presence alone was an inspira- 
tion. His faithful drilling of the regiment during the weary months at 
Hall's Hill had much to do with its later efficiency. When passing along 
that restless line at Gaines' Mill, he replied to the men who were tired of 
watching for the enemy that would not come, "Boys, you will see enough of 
them before night;" his words seemed a prophecy of his own fate. 

Who can forget the gentle Naghel, who died beside McLane, before he had 
time to more than begin making a name as major of the Eighty-third. 

To those who saw Lieutenant Plympton White at Gaines' Mill, when the 
regiment was almost surrounded and summoned to surrender, and heard his 
scornful "Hell , the Eighty-third Pennsylvania never surrenders," worthy of 
Victor Hugo's Cambronne at Waterloo, his sad death in the prison hospital 
at Charleston will be a tender memory. 

lu raising here, our monument of granite, to transmit to those who follow 
us the story of the deeds of the Eighty-third, we crown it with a tribute in 
enduring bronze to the one man who above all other's seem to personify the 



464 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

spirit of the regiment, of the brigade, of the army, of the people, that poured 
out its treasure and its blood that this might be forever a free nation. The 
Commissioners of the State very properly refused to permit any personal al- 
lusions or inscriptions to be placed on the Pennsylvania monuments. They 
stand to commemorate the common deeds of the soldiers of the Common- 
wealth. In their description, this statue stands as "The figure of a Union 
oflioer." When the survivors of the Eighty-third, or of any regiment of the 
old Third Brigade at Gettysburg, think of a XJnion officer, whose figure shall 
be symbolic, the name of Vincent spi'ings to the front. We honor ourselves 
in honoring him. He was our ideal. Without previous military training, he 
seemed a born soldier. Turning aside from the ranks of civil life, in a few 
months he was the more than competent commander of a brigade. Strict in 
discipline, yet loving his men and jealously guarding their rights, he inspired 
in them confidence, love and trust. To him the etiquette of the service was 
a means, not an end. He knew how to ride over it when occasion required. 
When at Chancellorsville, the brigade was sent to the extreme right and 
placed in position to protect the flank, with what magnificent insubordination 
he dashed up to the brigade commander who ordered him to recall his men 
from their work of getting timbers for a rifle-pit to "Dress back about three 
feet," the left of the crooked line of hastily stacked rifles, and saying with a 
curt salute, "I must not lose a moment, sir, in fortifying my position," 
dashed back to stimulate and direct his men, leaving his superior officer 
muttering a reluctant assent. 

When, as the rear guard of that sorrowful retreat from Chancellorsville, 
we crossed the river to find the roads over which the army had passed, turned 
to fathomless mud, how he scorned the rule that required him to keep his 
place in line, and led the Eighty-third through woods and fields, reaching 
camp in time to have supper cooked and the men ready to sleep before the 
balance of the brigade appeared. 

Who can forget the cheers that broke through the solemn decorum of dress 
parade when the order was published announcing the resignation of his pre- 
decessor and assigning him to the command of the brigade. 

What superb generalship he showed at Goose creek in gauging the morale 
of the enemy, and when the flanking manoeuver that had driven him across 
the Loudoun valley failed at last, because the creek was too deep to ford, 
putting him to route by dashing at the bridge with sword flashing in air, and 
before a man had moved, shouting so as to be plainly heard by the enemy, 

"There they go boys, uoav give them !" Well, the rebels did not wait 

for the balance of the remark. The bridge was clea:fed, the cavalry thun- 
dered over and the enemy did not stop his retreat until he reached the plain at 
the foot of Ashby's Gap. 

In July, 1863, on this ground, we were making history. Assembled here 
to-day we are making history still. The correct story of Gettysburg has 
never been, will never be written. None but the actors on the field can tell 
the story, and each one can tell of his own knowledge but an infinitesimal 
part. Many conscientious historians have attempted to weave a symmetrical 
whole from such disconnected thi-eads as they can gather, but their accounts 
vary as their sources of information. Every man owes to the memory of 
those who died here, his best endeavor to tell truly the story of their deeds. 



Pennsylvania at Getty shtirg. 465 

that the historian of the future may have the material out of which to 
fashion a truer story of Gettysburg. 

We may fairly say, without fear of contradiction, and without taking a 
leaf from the laurels of other heroes, that the genius, the devotion, the hero- 
ism, the consummate skill of Vincent, prevented the turning of our left 
flank July 2, held the enemy as in a vise, and preserved to our army posses- 
sion of Little Round Top, the loss of which would have meant the loss of 
our whole position, and a victory for the enemy instead of the defeat which 
was the beginning of the end. 

Full justice has never been done him in any account that I hiuve seen. 
The Comte de Paris, in his admirable history, says that General Warren, 
who from his position with the signal corps had observed the approach of the 
column sent by Longstreet to occupy this height, hastened to General Sykes 
near the wheatfield, urging the necessity of placing troops there, and that 
Sykes sent Vincent's Brigade. General Doubleday, in his account, says that 
General Warren, seeing Barnes' Division, which Sykes had ordered forward, 
standing formed for a charge to relieve De Trobriand, took the responsibility 
of detaching Vincent's Brigade and hurried it back to take -post on Little 
Round Top. Neither is entirely correct, and Doubleday almost put in the 
mouth of Warren the very words used by Vincent. Although a private sol- 
dier, my duty as Vincent's bugler and bearer of his brigade flag that day and 
during all the period of his command of the brigade, gave me better oppor- 
tunities than even the oflicers of his staff enjoyed to see and hear what oc- 
curred and was said, for the reason that they were busy transmitting his 
orders, while I never left him, but was always near enough to hear all ver- 
bal orders given and received. The incidents of that day are burned into my 
memory, and I am glad to-day of the opportunity of giving you my recollec- 
tions of it. After a long time of waiting for orders in that position in the low 
ground near the Weikert house, listening to the terrible roar of artillery and 
musketry in our front, an officer came galloping toward us from the direc- 
tion of the wheatfield. Vincent, with eyes ablaze, spurred towards him, and 
as he approached near enough to speak, said in his impetuous way, "Captain, 
What are your orders?" Instead of answermg, the oflicer inquired, "Where 
is General Barnes?" If Vincent knew, he did not answer. I had not seen 
him since morning. He was not at the head of his division. If he gave an 
order during the battle to any brigade commander I fail to find a record of 
it in any account I have read. The other brigades of the division fought 
heroically in the line along the wheatfield, but the orders appear to have 
been given by Colonel Til ton and Colonel Sweitzer. Vincent repeated his 
question with emphasis: "What are your orders? Give me your orders." 
The captain replied, "General Sykes told me to direct General Barnes to 
send one of his brigades to occupy that hill yonder." Without an instant's 
hesitation Vincent replied, "I will take the responsibility of taking my bri- 
gade there," and ordering Colonel Rice to follow as rapidly as possible, he 
dashed at full speed for the hill. The Eighty-third know how little time 
there was to spare. Military men would not have criticised him had he di- 
rected that staff officer to General Barnes and waited calmly for the order 
to move to be sent him through the regular channels. Some might censure 
his assumption of responsibility, but had he waited, that advancing column 



466 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

of the enemy would have been in possession, and not even the Third Brigade 
could have dislodged it. 

Riding rapidly to the summit he came out on the little plateau in rear of 
the position held later by the Sixteenth Michigan. I foUow^ed with the flag. 
A battery which had been firing at the signal flags a little further to our 
right, opened on us, and he directed me to retire behind the rocks. In a few 
moments he dismountel and, giving me the bridle rein of Old Jim, went back 
on foot examining the ground. When the head of the brigade appeared, its 
position was ready. Profes.sional soldiers have pronounced the position 
chosen by him the finest selected by a volunteer ofiicer during the war. Many 
an ofiicer ordered to occupy a hill would have formed his main line along the 
summit, as did Bragg at Missionary Ridge, but he, knowing that the bravest 
men may sometimes waver before an impetuous charge, placed them lower 
down, leaving a rallying point, and a position above for reserves, should a 
second line be required. The recoil of the Sixteenth Michigan when as- 
saulted in front and flank, and the repulse of that assault by the timely ar- 
rival of the One hundred and fortieth New York, in the place he had left for 
it, prove the wisdom of his choice. 

The line was held, but at what a cost. Throwing himself into the breech 
he rallied his men, but gave up his own life. Comrades and friends, that 
was not a bauble thrown away. In the very flower of his young manhood, 
full of the highest promise, with the love of a young wife filling his thought 
of the future with the fairest visions, proud, gentle, tender, true, he laid his 
gift on his country's altar. It was done nobly, gladly. No knight of the 
days of chivalry was ever more knightly. When, a few hours before, as we 
tramped along the dusty road in the night, marching to Gettysburg, then 
unknown to fame, the old flag was unfurled and fluttered in the breeze, he 
reverently bared his head, and with the premonition of the morrow in his 
heart, and said solemnly, "what more glorious death can any man desire 
than to die on the soil of old Pennsylvania fighting for that flag?" 

Sonie of us wished that those words might be placed upon our monument, 
but the Commissioners would allow nothing buf: the cold transcript of records 
in the War Department. May we keep them graven in our hearts and teach 
them to our children. 

This place is holy ground. The glory of the Christ is that he died for men. 
He died, and we know he is not dead. May we not reverently say that those 
who have gladlj' died for men are not dead, hut are with us to-day; more liv- 
ing than when they stood to stem the tide of invasion. If we are proud to 
say that we were in that line on Little Round Top, think you they regret it? 
With clearer vision than ours their eyes see the glory of the coming of the 
Lord . They see this broad land a nation ; not an aggregation of petty sover- 
eign states. They look down the coming years and see it peopled with a 
host of freemen, rejoicing in the result of their sacrifice. They are content. 

Let us listen to them to-day. God forbid that this fair land should ever 
need another such sacrifice, but if it fails to prize its heritage, and must 
again be purified by fire, may we and our children be able to sing as they 
sang : 

In the beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea; 

With a glory in his bosom that transfigures you and me. 
As he died to malie men holy, let us die to make men free, 
While God is marching on. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 4G7 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

84TH REGBIENT INFANTRY* 

September 11, 1880 
ADDRESS OF CAPTAIN THOMAS E. MERCHANT 

SOLDIERS of the Eighty-fourth Regiment Pennsylvania Veteran Volun- 
teers: — If the feeling with which these words of salutation are heard 
and accepted, is like unto the feeling that prompts their utterance 
then are we fully compensated in our coming together. We name the old 
regiment, and what recollections crowd in upon us; memories of the camp, 
the march, and the field. Some fond — many weighted with the touch of 
sorrow felt in its heavy burden even until now, through all of so much of 
time. In the presence of these recollections I could not hope to control your 
thought. I would not ask you simply to follow words as I speak them, but 
rather that you be all of memory, all of feeling, thinking, listening the 
while if you can, but surely thinking. For in thought you can cover more 
ground in moments than I could travel for you in days. Together you com- 
prise the whole book, the turning of whose pages wakens memory to every 
detail, while from the one individual you can have no more than the head- 
lines to the volume whose contents you are so familiar with. Together you 
know what our regiment was; alone I can but outline to you, and that 
roughly, a meagre part of the full story of the Eighty-fourth. Its history 
could be found only in the everything that could be told by each of all the 
hundreds, living or dead, who numbered its total strength. But where your 
special individual interest lies it is not possible for me to tread. I wish 
I could tell the story of every company, relate the incidents of every mess, 
and note the experiences of every individual. 

Many the time we have recalled our comradeship, more especially with 
those with whom we were brought in the closer association. It would be a 
pleasant theme were I at liberty to name the latter and their never-forgotten 
deeds, that I might place on record my keen appreciation of their kindly acts 
at a time when kindness was most to be valued, and fidelity most to be 
prized. But in whatever I do upon this occasion, I stand reminded that I 
am not to tread over again my individual walk, nor speak again my personal 
conversation. What is said — what is done — shall be, so far as may be, of all 
for all. 

Not many of us had the opportunity to know very much outside the limits 
of the company; and fewer of us beyond the limits of the regiment. And it 
was well for good service that the majority of soldiers were content with the 
woL'k assigned them, and gave but little heed to the details of location of 
armies or corps, and little thought to the place of divisions or brigades. 



*Ors;u)izea at Harrisburg from No\fmber 22, 1S61 to October 1, 1S62, to serve three 
years. On the expiration of its term of service the original members (except veterans) 
were mustered out and the veterans and recruits consolidated into a battalion of four 
Cos. and retained in service until January 13, 1S65, when it was consolidated with the 
o7th Penna. 



468 Pennsi/lvama at Gettysburg. 

Who was the best-posted man on the news? Who the readiest army talker? 
Who the general of the camp? The soldier who was not to be found in the 
place his enlistment called for at the time when his presence would have 
told the most. It was well for the service that he did not number many. 

The good soldier ought not to think it strange, that while in everything he 
did his duty well, he does not know much of what was done by regiments 
other than his own, and would be at a loss to name the number of his bri- 
gade. Nor must he think that the comrade who stood side by side with him 
is the only one mistaken as to the occuri'ences of the day. It would not 
always be well to accept a soldier of F Company as a conclusive witness of 
what took place in E, if there was dispute as to the bearing of the line, or 
question as to who were the first to advance; and yet, no one will bend the 
ear more gladly than myself to the recitals of a soldier in fact, because I 
know he gives us the truth as ^e believes it. And if from the data thus 
gathered, I count that his regiment was killed, or permanently disabled, 
twice over, I attribute the ciutcome to a lack somewhere in the arithmetic, 
and not to a vice in the teller. And, in this connection, we must not over- 
look the fact of the years that have rolled by. 

Twenty-four years and upward in the circle of time measures the distance 
of our close, very close, comradeship. Years more than many of us had 
numbered prior to the beginning, four years before, of the long campaign. 
The time that preceded and that which has followed, make up the life or- 
dinary. The long four years was the life within the other life. In it was 
contained the greatest of all wars from the world's beginning — the war 
against the rebellion of '61. 

Hirelings were not upon either side. It was man against man in the fight. 
Soldier pitted against soldier. Each individual fighting the issue which so 
nearly concerned himself. It was the greatest of rebellions against the 
grandest of governments. If successful, to the world it would have been the 
greatest and 'grandest of i-evolutious. 

It was not a conflict forced merely for the prepetuatiou of slavery. It was 
the institution of the crown, and not preservation of the chattel, that most 
moved the men who moved the South from '89 to '61. 

One people in government, and yet in sentiment and practices as far re- 
moved as two nationalities. 

Forced together for mutual protection, yet from the beginning thoroughly 
divided in appreciation of the powers of a free government. 

In human direction, it was but a run of time when, as a government for 
the whole people, the central power would be called upon to assert itself by 
the power of might . 

Neither of the existing conditions would have won to the United States a 
constitution for their government such as was fixed upon and has come along, 
in its working, through all of a hundred years, without a break in any of its 
provisions. Every line of it, as to matters upon which men could differ, was 
agreed upon for submission to the states, because nece.ssity admitted of no 
other course for them, and live. Well was it for stability of government 
that, when the substance had passed the gauntlet of discussion, the words 
had been so well placed that not a letter was found astray when the great 
test came. No document of state has, or ever vC'ill, surpass it in sublimity 
of thought, arrangement of detail, clearness of expression or force of power. 



Pennsylvania at Oettyshurg. 469 

In the assertion of the binding powers of this constitution, the Eighty- 
fourth had a part, and you were a part of the Eighty-fourth. 

Your regiment was to you the command which centered your soldier life. 
And well content may you be in the fact that its character secured for it a 
reputation which, to every one of us has been a thing of just and affectionate 
pride. I studied that character at a time when I felt it was everything to 
me. My varied experiences in the several positions in company and regi- 
ment, which I occupied, enabled me to found a judgment which has been 
very clearly and most positively strengthened by every knowledge since ac- 
quired. The tenor of that judgment you will gather as I proceed, in an im- 
perfect way, to tell you a part of what you did in three years and nine 
months of soldier life. 

In the month of July, 1861, authority was granted directly by the Secre- 
tary of War, to recruit in the western part of Pennsylvania the Mountain 
Brigade, to be composed of infantry, cavalry and artillery; and upon its 
organization to be mustered into the service of the United States. Among 
the persons named in the order was one J. Y. James, who was to be 
assigned to the command of the troops when thus organized. The recruit- 
ing camp for the infantry was located three miles out of the town of 
Huntingdon, on the Warm Springs road. 

In accordance with the purpose that the recruiting and organization 
of the brigade should be under the direction of a regular army officer. 
Captain Grossman, of the Quartermaster's Department, United States 
Army, was detailed by the War Department for that duty, hence the name 
given to the camp to which the early recruits of the Eighty-fourth ever 
looked back as their original soldier home, and the birth-place of the regi- 
ment. The projectors of the brigade had reached out to three regiments 
of infantry, to be numbered, respectively, eighty-four, one hundred and ten, 
and, somewhat uncertain, but said to be, thirty-nine. 

I have given the numbers in the order named, placing the Eighty-fourth 
at the head, in view of the fact that its commander was to be the rank- 
ing regimental officer of the brigade. William G. Murray, Blair county, 
was selected as the colonel of the Eighty-fourth; William D. Lewis, of 

Philadelphia, as colonel of the One hundred and tenth; and Curtis, 

of Philadelphia, as Colonel of the third regiment. Whatever was done 
toward the building up of the last-named regiment, came to naught by 
the promulgation of an order transferring its recruits to the One hundred 
and tenth, and making ti-ansfers from the One hundred and tenth to the 
Eighty-fourth. While the reason for this double transfer has been inti- 
mated, it is not so certainly correct as to justify its statements as altogether 
fact. The brigade feature failed of accomplishment. Cavalry nor artillery 
put in an appearance; and James, the proposed brigade commander, did 
not identify himself with either regiment. But, while James did not be- 
come commander of the Mountain Brigade, the attempt to so locate him 
did place in the field two of the most efficient among all the regiments 
that entered their country's service in the War of the Rebellion, whether 
in the Army of the Shenandoah, the Army of Virginia, the Army of the 
Potomac, or any other of the armies of the Union. Recruiting for the 
Eighty-fourth commenced early in the month of August, the first enlist- 
ment date on the roll being the 16th of that month. 

31 



470 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



I do not venture the name of the first soldier of the regiment, lest, like 
to the naming of the youngest boy in the army, I might afterwards be 
met with scores of avowals that the record does not show strictly correct. 
Then, again, the serenity of manner, and mildness of word, with which a 
soldier is wont to put a criticism, makes it desirable to avoid placing such 
a necessity before him, if a simple omission will save his feelings upon 
the particular point, and the service be in no way injured thereby. 

On the 23d of October, the regimental organization was affected. In 
November, the regiment was ordered to report at Camp Curtin, which most 
Pennsylvania soldiers remember so well as overlooking Harrisburg. Here 
the enlistments were continued, and on the 23d of December the officers 
and men were mustered as a regiment into the service of the United 
States for three years, there being at the time nine companies, "II," 
omitted. Two days previous to the muster, the regiment was presented 
by Governor Curtin, on behalf of the State, with the colors. 

The field and staff officers were Colonel, William G. Murray; lieutenant- 
Colonel, Thomas C. MacDowell ; major, Walter Barrett; adjutant, Thomas 
H. Craig; quartermaster, John M. Kephart; surgeon, Gibbony F. Hoop; 
assistant surgeon, I. A. W. Redlick ; chaplain, Alexander McLeod ; ser- 
geant-major, William M. Gwinn ; quartermaster-sergeant, G. A. Ramey ; 
drum-major, Foster Wighaman ; fife-major, Thaddeus Albert. 

Line officers: Company A, captain, Robert L. Horrell ; first lieutenant, 
Jonathan Derno ; second lieutenant, Charles Reem. Company B, captain, 
Harrison W. Miles; first lieutenant, Samuel Bryan; second lieutenant, 
George Zinn. Company C, captain, Abraham J. Crissman ; first lieutenant, 
B. M. Morrow; second lieutenant, Charles O'Neil. Company D, captain, 
Alexander J. Frick ; first lieutenant, Uzal H. Ent ; second lieutenant, Cal- 
vin MacDowell. Company E, captain, Patrick Gallagher; first lieutenant, 
Patrick F. Walsh; second lieutenant, John Maloney. Company F, captain, 
Robert M. Flack; first lieutenant, Milton Opp ; second lieutenant, Jacob 
Peterman. Company G, captain, J. Merrick Housler ; first lieutenant, 
James Ingram; second lieutenant, D. W. Taggart. Company I, captain, 
Joseph L. Curby ; first lieutenant, Clarence L. Barrett; second lieutenant, 
John W. Paulley. Company K, captain, Matthew Ogden ; first lieutenant, 
Charles H. Volk ; second lieutenant, John W. Taylor. 

Strength of Companies. 





4-» 


m 




d 


to 






a 






a 
















o 








V 


tn 


a 








o 


m 


a 


^ 

b 


3 
S 


^ 



A 

B, 

C 

D 

E 

V 

G 

I 

K 

Total officers and men, . 



3 


5 


g 


77 


2 




3 


5 


5 


44 


3 




3 


5 


8 


67 


2 




3 


5 


3 


67 


2 




3 


5 


6 


73 


2 




3 


4 


4 


70 


2 




3 


5 


2 


70 


2 




3 


5 


8 


75 


2 




3 


5 


S 


72 


2 













Pennsylvania at Qettysburg. 471 

Murray's selection for the colonelcy of the Eighty-fourth may be at- 
tributed to the part which he took as an officer in the Mexican war, where 
he did honorable and praiseworthy service. Several of the men had 
responded promptly to the first call for three-months' troops, and were 
now on their way for the longer term. 

On the 31st of December, the last day of the year 1861, acting upon 
orders received to report at Hancock, Maryland, the regiment left Harris- 
burg at 2 o'clock in the afternoon, on a train made up of twenty-one 
cars, for Hagerstown, where it arrived at 6 o'clock in the evening of that 
day. 

On the 1st of January, 1862, early in the morning, began the first in 
the long series of the weary, footsore, leg-tiring, patience-testing and body- 
exhausting marches which were to be taken in the coming three and a 
half years. The morning was cold — cold enough to do full justice to the 
time of the season and the season of the year — what we characterize a 
bitter day, and a bitter experience was it for the boys who were yet to 
learn the attendants of war. A driving wind, with a fall of snow, made 
what would have been a more than uncomfortable bivouac for the night, 
were it not that to the weary traveler there is not less of comfort in 
stopping than in going. It was the less for the greater hardship, and 
the freezing could go on through the night unaccompanied by the strain 
of the march. Clear Spring had been left behind through the day, and the 
stop at night was without tents. 

Nine o'clock of the 2d marked the regiment again on the way, and on 
the mountain top at Fairview was had the first sight of secession land, 
the Dixie of the song, and then on to Hancock, by the bank of the 
Potomac, the terminal of the order that initiated the war service that 
started active, and on that line developed, continuously, to a fulness suffi- 
cient to meet the hardiest speculations of the most radical expectant. The 
National pike furnished the roadway from Hagerstown to Hancock. The 
arrival at Hancock was in the evening of the 2d. The regiment was put 
in quarters just vacated by the Thirteenth Massachusetts, which had been 
passed on its way down the river in canal boats. 

The day of arrival at Hancock was in the ninth month of a war 
that had not been lacking in vigor of movement on the part of the foe 
which the government had encountered, and yet so little of system had 
been attained, and so little of war wisdom sought after, that a regiment 
of soldiers was traveled from Harrisburg v>athout arms, and that to a 
point just across a river, narrow and shallow, from where lie the forces 
whose movements the regiment had been sent to check. 

On the 3d the guns were handed out. They were of the old Belgian 
make containing all the tallow that the barrel would accommodate in addi- 
tion to the several cartridges necessary to be supplied before the moistened 
powder could be induced to ignite. When they were carried over into 
Virginia, and the warmth of the fire reached the explosive grain, you can 
think now, as you realized then, that even the Belgian was not built to 
throw more than one ball at the same fire without repairs to one or the 
other — the gun or the man. 

But why say, or even think fault of what was done, for what was not 



472 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

doue, then. Everybody is wiser now. Through all its after course the 
regiment proved itself full worthy of the reputatiou at that time, so early 
in its history, at the very beginning of its campaign, impliedly accorded it, 
that it would go wherever ordered to go, and pick up on the way whatever 
could be found most effective for the best work. And there was the full 
regulation uniform. The appearance presented in the dark blue, the tail 
coat, the plentiful hat, and the extra cap. Who can say that these things 
were not sufficient to keep Stonewall Jackson on the other side, not- 
withstanding the apparent absence of arms? for, competent soldier that 
he was, he could not have been induced to believe that, in the ninth month 
of the war, a regiment of United States regulars would have been per- 
mitted at the front without all requisite paraphernalia close at hand. On 
the night of the 3d, the regiment was crossed over the Potomac on scows, 
and marched six miles across the country to Bath, the summer resort 
known as Berkeley Springs. Here were met Captain Russell's company of 
First Maryland Cavalry, two companies of the Thirty-ninth Illinois In- 
fantry, and a section of artillery, two guns, with which force the Eighty- 
fourth was to co-operate, with Colonel Murray, the ranking officer, in com- 
mand. On the morning of the 4th, from out of Bath, up on the mountain 
top, and there formed in line. From this point the rebel army could be 
plainly seen advancing along the three roads ; Jackson's force of ten thou- 
sand, consisting of Ewell's, Longsteet's and Early's brigades, supplemented 
by Ashby's cavalry. 

A detail from the regiment was thrown out as pickets or skirmishers. 
It is hardly required to say that these were forced back as the enemy 
moved on, until our small force was almost surrounded. Sufficient show 
of strength was kept up to deter Jackson from moving faster. 

About one o'clock in the afternoon, word was had that the artillery had 
exhausted their ammunition, and Murray concluded to fall back. The 
regiment could not return by the way it had come. A guide was sought, 
found and pressed into the service. His inclination was much toward 
the other side, and he soon showed himself more desirous of coming up 
with Ashby than of pointing out a safe approach to the river. At one 
point he came so near the accomplishment of his purpose, that Murray 
gave him a gentle caution in about these words : "If one of my men loses 
his life by your movement, your own life will be the forfeit." Thus kindly 
admonished, the guide changed the course of the march and conducted the 
regiment to Sir John's run, six miles up the river, from which point the 
way was along the railroad, under the high bluffs, to the old mill opposite 
Hancock. The problem now presented was how to avoid attack while 
recrossing. Upon Captain Russell's suggestion the two companies of the 
Thirty-ninth Illinois were placed in ambush, while he so disposed his men 
as to draw Ashby on. The manoeuvre worked well, and Ashby was so 
much surprised by the unexpected fire as to desist from further attempt. 
Some of the men, to avoid the delay attending the slow navigation of the 
ancient ferry, adopted the alternative of wo.ding the stream, trusting to 
the artillery fire of the enemy to warm them up by the time they reached 
the other side. In crossing, one man was lost to the regiment — whether 
to the world is to this hour a question. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 473 

As an addendum to the story of the muskets, it may be stated that the 
regiment crossed the river without belts, cartridge boxes or cap pouches, 
carrying the cartridges in one pocket and the caps in the other. This 
omission was for want of time to adjust the belts. It seems incredible 
that less than a thousand men were thus successful in holding so many 
thousand in check for an entire day, and without death, wound or capture 
of a man. However, the good service was in fact done, and history is 
no more remiss as to this event than it is as to the deprivation, toil and 
fighting of all the campaign in the valley to July of 1862. 

[Here followed a detailed account of the movements and services of the 
regiment frOm Hancock to Gettysburg.] 

Following on Chancellorsville, owing to the death of Gen. Whipple and 
the numerous casualties, the division was broken up and the regiment 
assigned to other commands. 

The Eighty-fourth and One hundred and tenth had been together up to 
this time, but from now on were to be parted. The Eighty-fourth went to 
the First Brigade (Carr's), Second Division (Humphreys'), and the One 
hundred and tenth to the Third Brigade, First Division. 

In the early part of June, it became clear that the officials of the Con- 
federacy were so much encouraged by the result of Hooker's campaign, 
that they had determined upon sending Lee into Pennsylvania. A recon- 
naissance by the cavalry under Buford and Gregg, south of the Rappa- 
hannock, delayed Lee for a few days. As soon as it was known that Lee 
was on the way, the people of Pennsylvania felt what the consequence 
could be, and feared what it might be. The State was divided into two 
military districts. The Department of the Monongahela, west of the 
Laurel Ridge mountains, was commanded by General Brooks, headquarters, 
Pittsburgh; and the Department of the Susquehanna, by General Couch, 
headquarters, Chambersburg. 

On June 14, Milroy was forced out of Winchester, leaving behind siege 
guns, eight field pieces, six thousand muskets, ammunition and stores. 

June 15, the Pi-esident called on INIaryland and West Virginia for ten 
thousand militia, each; Ohio, for thirty thousand, and Pennsylvania for 
fifty thousand, for six months' service. 

June 16, Jenkins' rebel cavalry, nine hundred and fifty strong, occupied 
Chambersburg, and withdrew on the 18th. 19th, portion of Rodes' rebel 
cavalry entered McConneUsburg and sacked the town. 21st, Pleasanton 
drove Stuart beyond Middleburg, through Upperville and Ashby's Gap. 
23d, rebel forces again occupied Chambersburg, the Union troops in the 
town falling back. 26th, rebel advance reached Carlisle, the militia under 
General Knipe retiring. 

Lee's forces were well under way down the valley when Hooker took 
down his tents opposite Fredericksburg. From the start to the finish it 
was a race, but not from the foe. There were no obstacles worth the 
mention for Lee to encounter, none for Hooker. Lee went upon that side 
of the mountain. Hooker upon this. Across the Potomac went Lee, and 
across the Potomac came Hooker, at different points. 

The Army of the Potomac had marched before, but never before, nor 
after, as it did through the night after crossing into Maryland. Along 



474 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

the tow-path, dark, wet and slippery, strength all gone, and the muscles 
expanding simply to get rid of the contraction.. 

Such was the character of the march, that at times the nearest comrade 
on the walk would not be within ten paces to the front or rear. What had 
been lost at the start must now be made up, for Lee was well on toward 
every Pennsylvania soldier's home. 

On June 28, at Frederick, Maryland, the order was promulgated assign- 
ing Major-General Meade to the command of the Army of the Potomac, 
and Hooker thereby relieved. 

On the night of June 30, at Taneytown, came the oi'der detailing the 
regiment to guard the supply train. The next morning. Colonel Opp, know- 
ing that his men were averse to such duty, made special request of the 
brigade commander to revoke the order, but without success. 

July 1, started with the train, which was then moving with the column 
from Taneytown on the road to Emmitsburg, and while on the way word 
came that the cavalry and the First Corps had encountered Lee at Gettys- 
burg, and that Reynolds had been killed. Immediately following this 
announcement came the order for the supply trains to report at West- 
minster. The supply trains were an important factor in army organiza- 
tion. They did good service in the camp, along the march and on the 
field. Without them even Gettysburg would not have been a field of 
monuments. At least twenty regiments of the Army of the Potomac did 
guard duty with the trains on the 1st, 2d and 3d of July, 1863. That 
duty was quite as necessary of performance, fully as important, carrying 
with it as much of possible danger, as was actually encountered by regi- 
ments engaged on the field, and as much of actual danger as did not fall 
to the lot of several of the regiments who were no more on the field than 
were the troops with the trains, and which regiments wrote Gettysburg 
on their battle-flags without a question as to its being rightly there. 

When the State of Pennsylvania placed upon her statute books the act 
that gave to every Pennsylvania command having a part in the Battle 
of Gettysburg a memorial stone, I had no doubt as to the Eighty-fourth 
coming within the terms of the act, and no doubt as to the duty of its 
soldiers to see that its monument was placed. 

The regiment had been, from the time of its entry into the service, 
a part of the Army of the Potomac, even before all the troops in Vir- 
ginia were so designated and continued to be till the end of the war. 
Failure of recognition under this law of the Commonwealth as a part of 
the Army of the Potomac, would hare left the regiment unrecorded to 
the world as of any army up to and including the time of Gettysburg. 
But comment of our own is unnecessary. The statement of General Carr, 
the brigade commander, covers all points, and, coming from an individual 
thoroughly competent to pass judgment, and yet free from the slightest de- 
gree of interest that might possibly induce bias, ought to, and does, answer 
all questions and resolve all doubt. 

(The following letter was written by General Carr in response to a 
communication asking simply for a statement by him of the duty on which 
the regiment was ordered in connection with the Battle of Gettysburg. 

The tribute thus tendered to the regiment not only evidences the high 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 475 

regard had by General Carr for the officers and men of the Eighty-fourth, 
but is indicative of the feeling entertained and expressed by Shields, Car- 
roll, Ricketts, Whipple, Pierce, Mott and other genei-al officers, in whose 
immediate command the regiment was placed between October, '61 and 
July, '65.) 

Office op American Chain Cable Works, 
TnoY, N. Y., October 28, 18S7. 
General John P. Taylor, President, 

Board of Commissioners Gettysburg ifoniiments, Philadelphia, Pa.: 

Sir: — I have the honor to present the following statement, in reference to the part 
taken by the Eighty-fourth Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers in the Gettysburg cam- 
paign. 

The Eighty-fourth Regiment was in the First Brigade, Second Division, Third Corps, 
Army of the Potomac, during the movements of that army from Fredericksburg, Vir- 
ginia, to Emmitsbnrg, Maryland. On the morning of the 1st of July, the regiment Vfus 
retailed by an order from headquarters to guard the supply train that was then located 
between Emmitsburg and Gettj'sburg. The regiment remained on duty with the train 
until relieved by another regiment, on the 6th July, when it reported to me for duty 
wliile at Williamsport. 

The duty performed by the Eighty-fourth Regiment during the three days' fighting 
was as essential aud important as that of any other regiment of my command; it was 
a duty they were ordered to perform over which they had no control, but as good sol- 
diers obeyed the command. When Colonel Opp received the order he sent his adjutant. 
Lieutenant Mather, to me with a request to have the order rescinded, which of course 
was not granted. 

Tlie Eighty-fourth Regiment was one of my best and most reliable commands. The 
officeri! and men were always ready and willing to do their duty. 

To deprive this regiment of the recognition it is entitled to, upon that memorable 
battlefield, woull, in my opinion, be 'a very great injustice. I would respectfully sug- 
gest that the monument be erected at a point near where my headquarters were, pre- 
vious to the second days' engagement. It was near the Emmitsburg road, directly in 
front of the Roger's House, as you will see upon the map of the field. The inscription 
should state the whereabouts of the regiment on the 1st, 2d and 3d of July, 1S63, and 
the actual duty it was performing. 

I am, very respectfully, 

Joseph B. Cark. 

This statement is a monument in itself. No regiment ever received, or 
could have had, more emphatic endorsement of its service. 

The State Commission on Gettysburg monuments had no doubt of the 
full right of the Eighty-fourth to participate with all other Pennsylvania 
regiments that took part in the batle of Gettysburg, and promptly said so. 

On the night of the 4th, the regiment was ordered from Westminster to 
rejoin the brigade, and reported to General Carr on the 6th. 

While at Westminster, there was constant apprehension of attack by 
rebel cavalry, and the Picket guards were under strict orders to be continu- 
ally on the alert to avoid surprise. 

During the night of the 13th and the morning of the 14th Lee crossed 
his army over the Potomac at Williamsport, closely followed by the Union 
cavalry, the advance of the Army of the Potomac. 

[Here followed a detailed account of the movements of the regiment 
from Gettysburg to Appomattox.] 

December 31st, 1864, regiment was consolidated into a battalion of four 
companies. 

This formation was preparatory to the consolidation of the regiment with 
the Fifty-seventh Pennsylvania, which had been made a battalion of 
six companies. The .consolidation took place on January 13, 1865. The 
consolidation was not a merger, save as to number. The Fifty-seventh 



476 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

composed the right six companies and the Eighty-fourth the left four 
companies. 

I will venture what I think the explanation of the dropping of the 
number eighty-four and the retention of the number fifty-seven, notwith- 
standing it was known that the colonel, major and adjutant of the con- 
solidated regiment would be from the Eighty-fourth. But it was also 
known that the retention of the number eighty-four would work great in- 
justice to officers who had earned further promotion, and therefore the 
natural course of the command of the regiment determining the number, 
must give way to the necessity which justice prompted. 

[Here followed account of marches from Appomattox to near Washing- 
ton.] 

From camp near Washington to Harrisburg, there a closing of accounts 
with the government that had, with the. loss of 400,000 loyal lives and the 
crippling of 300,000 Union soldiers, and the agonies of the sorrow which 
never could be told off, been made altogether free. 

Into the hands of each comrade was placed a printed copy of the follow- 
ing paper: 

I'arting as a baud of brothers, let us cliug to the memory of those tattered banuers, 
uudei- which we have fought together, and which, without dishonor, we have Just now 
restored to tlie authorities who placed them iu our hands. Till we grow gray-headed 
and pass away, let us sustain the reputation of this noble regiment. 

Fortune threw together two organizations, the Eighty-fourth and Fifty-seventh, to 
make the present command. Both regiments have been iu the service since the begin- 
ning of the strife, and the records of both will command respect in all coming time. 
Ver.v many of those who were enrolled with us have fallen, and their graves are scat- 
tered here and there throughout the South. We shall not forget them, and the people 
of this nation must and will honor their memory. Comrades, farewell. 

Then with certificates of honorable muster-out, all matters of detail 
faithfully completed, and the 8th day of July, 1865, at hand, the "Old Regi- 
mental Home'' was gone, and forever. 

The war is over! But not so its splendid achievements, its grand and 
far-reaching results. 

Never was conflict waged to a better and surer end. Never a result at- 
tained bearing so completely upon true governmental economy. To the 
revolution of '75 we are indebted for the rebellion of '61. The revolution 
stands out the more grandly because of the resulting text — the rebellion. 
The rejection of the latter was the upholding of the principles of the former ; 
posterity's emphatic endorsement of a valuable ancestry- Victories may 
be great but not always just. Conquerors have vanquished peoples and 
thereby encompassed countries within their toils, and then regretted there 
was not more to do on the same line. But their doing was only the ac- 
complishment of personal gain, the satisfaction of selfish purpose. With 
thern war was a thing sought after, not a calflmity to be avoided. 

Justice was not their polar star, nor did they seek the moral sphere 
as the place of their habitation. With them war was a vocation ordinary, 
and life and morals consideration secondary. Public standing and landed 
interests were made to depend upon military record. Conquered terri- 
tory was divided as would be now the spoils of the theft, among the par- 
ticipators in the act and in proportion to the extent of the service done. 
What a mistake, how grievous a wrong, to review on the printed page 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 477 

the tenacity of an Alexander, or the vigor of a Napoleon, for the purpose 
of comparing the wars of their armies with the deeds of patriotism and 
of valor that moved the six fighting j'ears of the revolution, or the four 
years of the rebellion. 

No man this side of the Atlantic forced the revolution. It was the 
outcome of oppression that ill-fitted a people who had crossed from the 
other shore, not to bear greater burden, but that they might be full free 
from the crush of wrong. In its beginning not aggressive, but defensive. 
A year passed by before it was determined that the yoke should be fully 
thrown off and absolute independence moved for. 

And so it was, when along in the after years came the overt acts of 
treason that were to force states into rebellion, against the will of their 
people, every effort, reasonable and unreasonable, was made to conciliate 
the men whose only desire was not Union, but disintegration. So far did 
some of the most prominently active, and, I may add, patriotic men of 
our country, go in their determination to avoid a resort to arms, that the 
very amendment to the Constitution of these United States that forever 
forbids the institution of slavery, would have been, in number, the amend- 
ment that would have fastened slavery upon the country forever, had it 
not been that just then treason grasped for too much and thereby lost all. 
Now, when all is safe, it moves us to a condition of agony to recall that 
in the winter of '60 and '61, so weighty was the power of the then South, 
that among the men of our country, those of best repute, were found so 
many, who, to avert war, were ready to surrender everything, save the 
theory of a central government for all the States, and the bare privilege 
to look at the old flag. 

Our country is great, our government is powerful, but no thanks are 
owing to compromise for the greatness of the one or the power of the 
other. 

Treason's eagerness for the capture of all saved one generation from the 
commission of a wrong that the good deeds of all the coming generations 
could not have atoned for. 

It is well to be on guard always. 

And what of the present? 

The once soldiers of the Confederacy are entitled, as individuals, to 
every manly consideration at our hands ; as individuals they are as we 
are, men walking the journey of life, reaching out to one common goal. 
But their organized bodies have no claim upon us for recognition. The 
government should have taken the life from every "camp" at its birth, and 
its strong arm should have swept from its soil the first monument to 
rebellion, with the warning that the placing of the second would be known 
as treason. 

They have been asking that the war be forgotten, and yet they would 
keep as daily reminded by the flaunting of the Confederate bars. 

No monument to treason should have been permitted a place on this or 
other field, and being here should be returned to the donors, not to be 
erected elsewhere. 

No government is strong enough to glorify treason against itself, nor to 
encourage it anywhere. 



478 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

The individual I would take most heartily by the hand, the organization 
I discard. 

There can be no true call for a union of the blue and the gray. Let 
all don the blue. In place of waiting for the chasm to be closed, flank 
it and locate upon our side. The chasm itself can do no harm. It will 
be a thing well to look upon at times, and take warning from as the divider 
of great depths and impassable width. 

As in Heaven, so in earth, to dwell together as brothers, all must be of 
one mind, patriots upholding the one flag, standing fast by the red, white 
and blue. 

When true history of our day comes to be written, all things will be 
made plain. With the faithful historian, it Is not the question of the doing, 
but of the thing done. Just as when we look •upon the completed work 
of the sculptor, or the finished touch of the painter, it is not of the marble, 
or the canvas and the material laid upon it that we think, but of the figure 
before us, as we note perfection in every line, and see life in the seeming 
light of the eye, and apparent movement of muscle. 

History gives little heed to men, save to designate the moral character 
of the age. 

And now, comrades, for the part taken by the Eighty-fourth Regiment 
Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteers in the setting of the page which will 
commemorate the work of our time, a grateful Commonwealth has placed 
upon this spot this weight of granite. 

To the living it is, and to the people yet to come it will be, the visible 
proof of the deeds of heroism which located a part of the life of the men 
who bore the names that make up the roll of a command, whose record 
among the archives of the Nation is without the semblance of a blur 
or particle of a stain. Clear, positive, clean cut all the way through. 
Do we advance sentiment only, when we say that such a body did not, 
could not, have died in '65? Is there nothing of substance, nothing real, 
to come out of the thought, that as our country lives, so we as a regiment 
go on, living in the freedom of a land and the stability of a government, 
neither of which would now be, without sentiment, the spring of human 
life? 

The memorial which is here placed speaks from all along the line, from 
Bath to Appomattox. 

For the moment it moves aside, and where it was, and within the length- 
ening of its shadow, we see them all and as we glance from right to left, 
from front to rear, one is taken from here, another from there, one by one, 
from the highest in rank to the lowest, from the oldest in years to the 
youngest, the man and the boy ; first the two hundred and thirty in the time 
of the war, then the many who have left us in the days that have inter- 
vened ; and then comes the shaft into the space which was made for it. 
We look upon it now, and know that it stands for them. The time is coming 
when it will stand for all whose names made up a regimental roll. 

Then, and not till then, shall we know that our work here is fully done. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 479 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

88™ REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

September 11, 1S89 
ADDRESS OF LIEUTENANT-COLONEL GEORGE E. WAGNER 

COMRADES of the Eighty-eighth Regiment and fellow-citizens:— The 
I'egiment in whose memory we are assembled on this occasion was 
recruited by Colonel George P. McLean, and was originally railed 
the Cameron Light Guard, in honor of the Hon. Simon Cameron, then 
Secretary of War ; it was afterwards known as the Eighty-eighth Regiment 
Infantry Pennsylvania Volunteers. It was composed of seven companies 
from Philadelphia and three from Reading, in all about 1,000 men. Re- 
cruited in September, 1861, re-enlisted in January, 1864, and mustered out 
of service June 30, 1865, having served well and' faithfully for a period of 
three years and ten months. 

During its term of service there were inscribed upon its rolls the names 
of about 2,050 officers and enlisted men. Of the original complement of 
officers — field, staff and line— of thirty-eight, but two remained at muster- 
out. Colonel Louis Wagner and Lieutenant-Colonel Edmund A. Mass, both 
of whom originally entered the regiment as first lieutenants ; and of the 
nearly 1,000 enlisted men mustered into service in 1861, but ninety three 
were present with their commands at muster-out in 1865. Thirty-six of 
the original officers and more than nine hundred of the men originally en- 
listed had meanwhile succumbed to wounds or disease ; those who had not 
yielded up their lives to rebel bullets or to the diseases incident to a sol- 
dier's life, had been discharged because of physical disability incurred in the 
long and arduous services they had performed . 

To-day we, but a small remnant of that glorious old regiment, are as- 
sembled upon one of the many battlefields on which it did and dared, 
and it is a fitting time to at least name the many others upon which it fought 
and bled. 

Receiving our baptism of fire on Cedar Mountain, under Pope, came 
rapidly Rappahannock Station, Thoroughfare Gap, Second Bull Run, Chan- 
tilly, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Mine Run, 
Wilderness, Spotsylvania, North Anna, Totopotomoy, Bethesda Church, 
Cold Harbor, Petersburg, Weldon Railroad, Dabney's Mill, Boyd ton Road, 
Five Forks and, lastly, the crowning victory at Appomattox. 

What wonderful memories these names awaken ! Struggles, fierce and 
bloody; defeats and victories; marches by day, by night, by rain, by shine, 
in summer's heats and winter's blasts, through clouds of dust, through 
oceans of mud; with McDowell, with Pope, with McClellan, with Burn- 
side, with Hooker, with Meade, and, lastly, with the grand commander of 



*Orgaiiized at Fliil&delpliia from Sei'tember 1S61 to April, 1862, to serve three years. On 
the expiration of its term of service the original members were mustered out and the 
organization composed of veterans and recruits retained in service until June 30, 1865, 
when it was mustered out. 



480 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

all— the immortal Grant, who, by his ponderous blows, brought annihila- 
tion to our enemies and gave us blessed peace. 

I congratulate you, men of the Eighty-eighth, on your share in these 
mighty achievements! Let us rejoice that we, the survivors, have lived 
to see the day when the people of this great Commonwealth, through their 
Governor and other chosen officials and representatives, assemble to do 
honor to an organization of which we were part, and to drop a tear, with 
us, to the memory of the many of our comrades who fell by the wavside 
during those terrible days now happily past. 

Since the eventful days in July, 1863, that made this spot historic, many 
pages have been written to describe what happened here, all of which 
have been more or less colored, because of the standpoint of the writers. 
Some would have us believe that Pickett's charge was the only event in 
the battle worthy of particular record ; others unduly extol the fight in the 
Peach Orchard; others, again, think that Devil's Den and Round Top 
were the vital points in the fight, while still another class claim that the 
Heaviest and most important fighting of all was at Gulp's Hill, in the en- 
trenchments of the Twelfth Corps, on the right of the line. We of the 
First Corps have been entirely too modest, or, if not too modest, have lacked 
spokesmen ; for to our minds it is a fact beyond dispute that there was 
no heavier or harder fighting on any day, or on any part of the field, than 
right here on this line on the first day of the battle. The fighting at 
Peach Orchard, Devil's Den, Round Top, Gulp's Hill, Pickett's charge 
was like sudden summer storms, while the battling for the possession 
of this ridge was like a steady all-day rain. The summer's storm, gather- 
ing abruptly, bursts in fury with a heavy downpour, and perhaps flood, 
but ceases as quickly as it came, while the steady pour of the whole day 
swells rivulets into angry streams and carries all before it. So it was on 
the field of Gettysburg. The storms of the second and third days broke 
suddenly and with great fury, and, while they lasted, could not be ex- 
celled for fierceness or destruction, but soon they ceased; while here, on 
the first day, on this ridge, the steady downpour on our devoted heads 1 egan 
early in the morning, lasted throughout the day until sundown, when we 
were completely overwhelmed by the flood and carried away. 

At this date (July 1, 1863), the Eighty-eighth was attached to Baxter's 
Brigade, Robinson's Division, First Army Corps, all commanded by Gen- 
eral Reynolds, who also had under his command the Third and Eleventh 
Corps ; the whole forming the left wing of the Army of the Potomac . 

The movements of the Army of Northern Virginia and the Army of 
the Potomac bring the advance of each to Gettysburg on June 30, our 
cavalry under General Buford reaching there but a short time before the 
infantry division of Heth, of Hill's Corps, of the rebel army; the advance 
of the First Corps of our army being about five miles from the town, the 
Eleventh Corps at Emmitsburg, Marj'land, about eleven miles distant, and 
the other corps at still greater distances, up to the forty miles of the Sixth 
Corps at Manhester. 

The fight opened early in the morning of July 1, by an advance of Heth's 
infantry to occupy the town. They were met and engaged by Buford's 
cavalry; the latter were greatly outnumbered, but by skilful manoeuvering 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 481 

they concealed the smalluess of their force, and kept up a brilliant and suc- 
cessful defense until reinforcements arrived — Wadsworth's Division, First 
Corps. Heth was reinforced by Pender's Division. The rebel line was now 
extended, and overlapped the flanks of Wadsworth ; Rowley's Division 
of the First Corps arriving, one brigade was sent to the right of Wads- 
worth, and the other to the left. Robinson's Division was held in reserve. 
Meanwhile Rodes' Division of Hill's Corps, and Early's Division of Ewell's 
Corps, arrived and prolonged the rebel line to the left, still overlapping 
our right flank. Two divisions from Eleventh Corps (Schimmelpfennig's 
and Barlow's) arrived in extension of our right; this was the full line of 
battle, as finally developed, the other division (Steinwehr's) of the Eleventh 
Corps having taken position as a reserve on Cemetery Hill. 

The whole force upon the field, on the first day, was about 30,000 of the 
rebel army, and about 17,000 of ours. 

Meanwhile the fighting was constant on different parts of the line, there 
being charges and counter-charges, in which the rebel brigades of Archer, 
O'Neal and Iverson were badly worsted and nearly annihilated. In these 
movements the Eighty-eighth Regiment, of Baxter's Brigade, Robinson's 
Division, had full share. 

Bates, the historian of Pennsylvania regiments, says: "As there was 
a gap between the First and Eleventh Corps, Doubleday ordered Robinson 
to send one of his brigades, that of Baxter, to fill it. The latter arrived 
in time to meet the enemy's advance, but his small brigade proved in- 
sufiicient to measure the open space, and, though fighting gallantly, driving 
back the enemy, and taking many prisoners and three battle-flags, he 
was constantly outflanked and exposed to a hot and enfilading fire." Again 
he says: 

"And when the troops of Baxter dashed gallantly forward, the rebels, 
seeing themselves pushed on three sides, surrendered in large numbers, 
and were swept into the Union lines." 

And again: — 

"Repeated assaults were made upon Paul and Baxter, with ever fresh 
troops, as if determined to break through and bear down all before them. 
But more daring and skilful leaders than Baxter, Paul and Robinson were 
not in the whole army, and their men were of the same spirit, and though 
suffering grievously at every fresh onset, hurled back the foe and main- 
tained their ground intact." 

The portion of the battle referred to in these quotations, occurred upon 
the spot upon which we now stand. On arriving here, we first faced to 
the north on the Mummasburg road ; then we changed front, to the left, 
at right angles to this road, facing west. The charge referred to was led 
by the Eighty-eighth, Company D to the front, down that declivity to 
the small stream in the hollow, where our granite tablet now marks the 
limit of advance. Many prisoners were taken; and two of the three b'.ttle- 



482 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

flags spoken of were taken by this regiment, that of the Twenty-third North 
Carolina and that of the Twenty-sixth Alabama.* 

Upon this spot the fight raged long and fiercely, but our line was not 
broken; unfortunately, that was not the case across the Mummasburg road, 
where stood the men of the Eleventh Corps. Their line was badly extended 
and very thin ; the distance to be covered being too long for the number of 
men available to occupy it. Heavy masses of the enemy were thrown 
against it, breaking through and threatening our right and rear. The First 
Corps had now been in the fight from five to six hours, and had success- 
fully maintained itself against repeated and constant assaults without 
support or relief; but when it was known that the right of the corps had 
been turned, and that the Eleventh Corps was falling back, it became 
evident that the position that had been so long and gallantly defended 
must be given up. "Baxter's Brigade, which had fought with stubborn 
bravery upon the right, was brought to the rear of the ridge, at the rail- 
road cut, where it defended a battery, and still held the enemy advancing 
from the north in check." 

General Doubleday, the commander of the First Corps, describcb the 
situation at this time in these words: "So far I had done all that was pos- 
sible to defend my front, but circumstances were becoming desperate. 
My line was very thin and weak, and my last reserves had been thrown 
in. As we had positive information that the entire rebel army was coming 
on, it was evident enough that we could not continue any longer unless 
some other corps came to our assistance. I had previously sent an aide 
to ask General Howard to reinforce me from Steinwehr's Division, but 
he declined to do so. I now sent my adjutant-general to reiterate my 
request, or to obtain for me an order to retreat, at is was impossible for 
me to remain where I was in the face of the constantly increasing forces 
which were approaching from the west. Howard refused to order m.e to 
retire. The First Corps had suffered severely in these encounters, but by 
this additional delay and the overwhelming odds against us it was almost 
totally sacrificed. General Wadsworth reported half of his men killed 
or wounded, and Rowley's Division suffered in the same proportion. Gen- 
eral Robinson had two horses shot under him. He reported a loss of 
1,667 out of 2,500. About this time the Eleventh Corps gave way on the 
right, the Confederate forces made their final advance in double lines 
backed by strong reserves, and it was impossible for the few men left 
in the First Corps to keep them back, especially as Pender's large divi- 
sion overlapped our left for a quarter of a mile. Robinson's right was 
turned. Under these circumstances it became a serious question how to 
extricate the First Corps and save its artillery before it was entirely sur- 
rounded and captured. Each brigade was flanked and assailed in front and 
on both flanks. Robinson was forced back towards the seminary, but 



^General Iverson, of the rebel army, whose brigade we encountered here, says, in his 
ofiicial report, "Tlie enemy * • * charged in overwhelming force upon and captured 
nearly all that were unhurt in three regiments of my brigade. When I saw white 
handkerchiefs raised and my line of battle still lying down in position I characterized 
the surrender as disgraceful; but when I found afterward that 50O of my men were left 
lying dead and wounded in a line as straight as a dress parade, I exonerated the sur- 
vivors and claim for the brigade that they nobly fought and died, without a man run- 
ning to the rear. No greater gallantry and heroism has been displayed during the war." 



Pennsylvania at Getty shurg. 483 

halted, nothwithstanding the pressure upon him, and formed line to save 
Stewart's Battery north of the railroad cut, which had remained too long 
and was in danger of being captured. As the enemy was closing in upon 
us, and crashes of musketry came from my right and left, I had little hope 
of saving my guns, but I threw my headquarters' guard into the seminary 
and kept the right of Scales' Brigade back twenty minutes longer, while 
the left was held by Baxter's Bi-igade of Robinson's Division. Soon, 
however, we were assailed in front and on both flanks, which caused a re- 
treat along the railroad bed into and through the town to Cemetery Hill, 
where the line was once more reformed and established." Thus ended the 
first day's fight. 

The First Corps, composed of three divisions of two brigades each — in 
all six brigades of tweuty-nine regiments — had resisted for many hours the 
repeated and constant attempts made to dislodge it from its position by 
portions of two corps of the rebel army containing the divisions of Heth, 
Pender and Rodes, of thirteen brigades of fifty-eight regiments, while the 
Eleventh Corps had two divisions of two brigades each — in all four bri- 
gades of eighteen regiments — in its line of battle, engaging Early's Divi- 
sion of Ewell's Corps, of four brigades of sixteen regiments. 

How many men were in these different divisions, brigades and regiments, 
is not ascertainable, but good authorities estimate that the First Corps had 
in this fight about 8,200 men, and that the Eleventh Corps had about 6,500, 
which, with Buford's Cavalry of about 2,500 men, Avould make our total 
force on the field of battle about 17,000 men, not including the reserve di- 
vision of Steinwehr, which remained on Cemetery Hill and did not get into 
action. 

At this time the whole rebel army was composed of three corps of three 
divisions each, or in all nine divisions of 69,000 men, making an average of 
7,666 to a division; or, say for the four divisions in the first day's fight, 
a total of 30,666. 

What the losses were, on this day, of the troops engaged, it is impossible 
to say, as there is no separate return for the first day's battle; the au:gre- 
gate for the whole battle for three days being the only record that shows 
the lo.sses of these troops. These aggregate as follows: 

Union Army: 

First Corps (excluding Stannard's Brigade) ,* 5,673 

Eleventh Corps (except Steinwehr's Division) ,* 2,855 

Buford's Cavalary (except Sixth United States Cavalry),* 176 

8,704 

Rebel Army: 
Ewell's Corps, Early's Division, 1,188 

" Rodes' Division , 2,853 

Hill's Corps, Heth's Division, 2,850 

" Pender's Division, 1,690 

8,581 

The Union loss includes 3,882 prisoners, most of whom were captured 
after both flanks of our line had been turned. The rebel loss includes 1,580 
*Not engaged on first day. 



484 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

prisoners, mainly of Archer's, Iverson's, O'Neal's and Daniel's brigades, 
who were captured in the various assaults made. 

The total forces engaged during the three days' battle, according to the 
best authorities, were: 

On the Union side, 83,000 

On the rebel side, 69,000 

Total, 152,000 

The total casualties were: 

Union army, 22,900, or about 27 percent. 

Rebel army, 20,488 " 29 

Total, both armies, 43,388, " 28J 

While the First Corps shows a loss of about 69 per cent, of the number 
engaged . 

These figures clearly tell the story of the persistent valor of the First 
Corps, and answer those in doubt as to whether there was "much of a 
fight" on the first day; in fact, they prove that the heaviest fighting of all 
was on the 1st day, because of the total loss of the troops of the First 
and Eleventh Corps and Buford's Cavalry, that fought on that day, nearly 
all were sustained along this line and on that day, and showing a total 
of 8,704 out of the whole loss of the Union army of 22,900, or 38 per cent., 
while the number engaged were but 20 per cent, of the whole force. 

The First Corps had engaged about 8,200 men, out of a total of the 
Union army of 83,000, or say less than 10 per cent., while its total losses 
during the battle were 6,024 out of a total in the army of 22,900, or over 
26 per cent. In other words, had the whole Union army suffered in the 
same proportion as the First Corps, the loss would have been 60,590, in- 
stead of 22,900. There was "right smart" ("as our friends, the enemy, 
would say") of a fight on the first day of July, 1863, at Oak Ridge and 
Seminary Hill, and you, men of the Eighty-eighth, bore your full share of 
the perils and glories of that day. 

In further illustration of the severity of the fighting on the first day, 
a table of comparison of the casualties is herewith annexed. 

The evening of the July 1 found the remnants of the First and Eleventh 
Corps on Cemetery Hill. Meanwhile General Hancock had arrived and 
relieved General Howard of the command, which had fallen to him, as 
senior officer present, on the death of General Reynolds. A new line of 
battle was at once formed. Wadsworth's Division of the First Corps 
being posted on Gulp's HUl, to the left of him, on Cemetery Hill, stood 
the Eleventh Corps, then came Doubleday's Division of the First Corps, 
and then Robinson's Division of the same corps. Divisions had by this time 
been reduced in numbers to less than small brigades, brigades to less than 
regiments, and regiments to less than ordinary full companies. My com- 
pany, for example, when we arrived at the hill, consisted of three enlisted 
men and myself; by the next morning I had, however, managed to gather 
up enough to show eleven good fighting men. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 485 

On the arrival of two divisions of the Third Corps, they prolonged the 
line to the left; later came the Twelfth Corps, which for the time being 
was held in reserve, but was afterwards put on the right of Wadsworth, 
and extended our line in that direction. Early on the morning of July 
2, the Second Corps arrived, also two divisions of the Fifth Corps (the 
other division of said corps reached the field about noon) ; also two brigades 
of the Third Corps; the Artillery Reserve arrived at 10,30 a. m., while 
the Sixth Corps (the largest in the army, which was at Manchester, nearly 
forty miles away, did not reach the field until 4 o'clock in the afternoon 

On July 2, the line was as follows: The First and Eleventh Corps, 
as posted on the night of the 1st, occupying Gulp's Hill and Cemetery 
Hill; then, to the left, came the Second Corps; then .the Third Corps; the 
Twelfth Corps on the extreme right of the line, its left touching Wads- 
worth's Division ; the Fifth Corps temporarily in reserve, but in the after- 
noon advanced into line on the left of the Third Corps, and extending 
to Round Top. 

Meanwhile the rebel line had also gotten into position. Ewell's Corps 
was formed on our front, opposite the Twelfth, Eleventh and First Corps 
of our army; then, to his right (our left), came Hill's and Longstreet's 
Corps, facing the Second, Third and Fifth corps of our army; Pettigrew's 
Division of Hill's Corps in reserve, and Law's Brigade of Hood's Division 
and Pickett's Division not yet arrived. 

The morning and the early part of the afternoon of the second day 
were spent in getting into position and planning forms of attack. General 
Meade, at dawn, commenced to form his lines for an attack from our 
right on BwelFs Corps of the rebel left, but that being finally decided 
inadvisable, changed his plans and began posting his troops on our left, 
with the view of attacking the enemy's right. Meanwhile, Lee was con- 
centrating his forces for an attack by Longstreet's Corps (his right) on 
our left; Ewell's Corps, on the extreme rebel left, to attack our extreme 
right at the same time, in order to help Longstreet. 

These movements were slow, but the attack was finally delivered with 
great force and spirit on the Third and Fifth Corps, which resulted in the 
fighting at Wheatfield, Peach Orchard, Devil's Den and Round Top. Our 
troops were driven from the Peach Orchard, and our line was pierced; 
but reinforcements arriving from the right, the tide was driven back and 
the rebel attacks repulsed . These reinforcements included portions of the 
First, Second and Twelfth corps, and among them was Robinson'?? Di- 
vision, in which was the Eighty-eighth, which did its full share in the re- 
pulse. The position of the regiment on that line is marked by a granite 
tablet. 

The stripping of the right of the line to reinforce the left, was Ewell's 
opportunity. Johnson's Division crossed Rock Creek, and soon discovered 
that the strong breastworks thrown up on our right were empty ; he at 
once occupied them and endeavored to turn our right flank, but wa.>< re- 
pulsed; pushing further to the right, he found nothing to oppose him, and 
advanced steadily far to the rear of our right flank, but darkness had come 
on and Johnson halted, fearing a trap. This halt was our salvation. The 
attack of Longstreet having been repulsed, the Twelfth Corps endeavored 

32 



486 Pennsylvania at Gettyshm^g. 

to return to its former position, on our right, which had been occupied 
by Johnson in its absence. Finding their entrenchments in the hands 
of the enemy, the men slept upon their arms, and at the break of day at- 
tacked the rebel line, and after a long and vigorous fight succeeded; and 
by 11 o'clock had retaken their fortified positions and restored the line of 
battle. 

We have now come to the third and last day of this battle, resulting in 
a complete victory for the Union forces. The Eighty-eighth has returned 
from the left, and is now posted in Ziegler's Grove, in the rear of Ceme- 
tery Hill; the spot being now marked by a granite tablet. About 1 o'clock 
p. m. there opens a perfect pandemonium of artillery firing, the like of 
which was probably never heard before or since. About one hundred and 
fifty of the rebel cannon are playing at once on a point in our line, and 
that point is the brigade joining our left. About one hundred and fifty 
of our cannon are vigorously returning the salute ; the air is thick with 
shot, and mother-earth has suddenly become very dear, and is embraced 
most ardently by the brave "boys in blue" that are in range of this ter- 
rific hail of lead and iron ; but this was but a prelude to a more terrible 
scene to come. Cannonading at long range, such as this, is more terrifying 
to the nerves than damaging to the body ; tons of balls go over our heads 
harmlessly, few do damage — the main object of it all is to "knock out" 
and sUence our batteries, for an assault is to be delivered on our line by 
infantry, and batteries firing grape and canister at short range on attack- 
ing columns are very destructive. The cannonading having ceased, the 
infantry column comes into sight ; steadily but surely it approaches our 
line, our firing plows great gaps through them, but still they come-— our 
line is reached, and with a rush and a spring they are on us. Now comes 
a hand-to-hand conflict between Pickett's Division of Virginians with 
Webb's Philadelphia Brigade. For a moment the line appears to be lost, 
but reinforcements from the right and left are quickly thrown in (among 
them the Eighty-eighth) ; the attack is repulsed, and Pickett's Division of 
Longstreet's Corps, supported by Wilcox's Brigade and Pettigrew's Bri- 
gade, both of HUl's Corps, are hurled back by Gibbon's and Hays' divisions 
of the Second Corps, and Doubleday's and Robinson's divisions of the First 
Corps ; and the battle of Gettysburg is practically at an end . 

It will be seen by this narrative, that the Eighty-eighth did its full share 
on the different days and in the various stages of this great battle. On 
the night of June 30, it was on picket duty; on July 1, with Baxter's Bri- 
gade, Robinson's Division, First Army Corps, at Oak Hill and Seminary 
Ridge; on July 2, it was, part of the day, at Cemetery Hill, and in the 
afternoon went on the "double-quick" as part of Robinson's Division, and 
assisted in the repulse of Longstreet's attack on the Third and Fifth Corps, 
between Peach Orchard and Round Top; on July 3, at Ziegler's Grove, 
in the rear of Cemetery Hill, and from there, on the "double-quick." to 
assist in the repulse of Pickett's charge on the left of Cemetery Hill. 

Men of the Eighty-eighth, every duty that you were called upon to 
perform on these eventful days, you did to the utmost, without complaint, 
but cheerfully and freely ; but at what a sacrifice it was ! The regiment 
went into action two hundred and ninety-six strong; ten were killed and 



Pennsylvania at Oettyshurg. 487 

one hundred wounded or c.iptured. Let me read the names of the heroic 
dead: Company A, William Beaumont; Company B, Sergeant Henry 
Evans; Company C, Michael Hollicher and Charles A. Zazier; Company 
E, Jacob Andrews and Joseph R. Bruner; Company H, Robert Simons; 
Company I, David Harland and John Link; Company K, John Corn. 

The officers commanding the regiment during the engagement were, first. 
Major B. F. Foust, who was wounded soon after the beginning of the 
fight; the command then devolved on, second. Captain (since lieutenant- 
colonel) E. A. Mass, who was captured during the charge made on Iverson's 
Brigade on the first day; third. Captain Henry Whiteside, Company A, 
who assumed command after the capture of Captain Mass, and directed 
the operations of the regiment towards the close of the first day, and also 
during the remaining days of the battle. 

The company commanders, were. Company A, Captain Henry White- 
side; Company B, Captain Edmund A. Mass, who, together with both of 
his lieutenants (George W. Grant and Samuel G. Boone), were captured 
and carried south. Company C, Lieutenant Alexander Gardiner, Jr. Com- 
pany D, Lieutenant George E. Wagner; Company E, Captain Joseph H. 
Richards; Company F, Captain George B. Rhoads ; Company G, Captain 
Henry Korn ; Company H, Lieutenant Henry E. Quimby ; Company I, 
Captain George L. Schell (who was captured); Company K, Lieutenant 
Sylvester H. Martin. 

The patriotic impulses of the people of this great Commonwealth, as 
exemplified by their legislature of 1887, paved the way to this form of 
ever keeping in remembrance the suffering and sacrifice of her citizen sol- 
diers. During the session of that year, a general law was passed making 
an appropriation of $1,500 for a memorial for each Pennsylvania regiment 
that fought on this field. 

The Survivors' Association of the Eighty-eighth had submitted to it many 
designs, and adopted the one that has resulted in the beautiful memorial 
that stands before us. Having chosen the design which required an ex- 
penditure far in excess of the State appropriation, energetic and success- 
ful action was immediately taken to supply the funds that were needed 

To-day we are assembled to dedicate this memorial in commemoration 
of the heroic deeds of this valiant regiment; and, as we look upon it and 
see heaped there the emblems of grim and ghastly strife and war, let 
us express the fervent hope that never again may this land be called upon 
to send its sons to follow the rattling drum or the piercing fife, nor to hear 
the whistling minie .bullet or the belching cannon, but rather that peace, 
blessed peace, shall be ours, and the inheritance of our children and our 
children's children unto the remotest day of time. 

Gettysburg! A name, before the eventful days of July, 1863, known 
only to the people of this locality, but then made famous and renowned 
to all parts of the earth — a name that will be celebrated to the most dis- 
tant ages of the world — a name that wUl be forever historic, made so by 
the brave men who here stood in the defense of their country's laws and 
flag. Where are these men? Some lie dead beneath your feet; the bones of 
others lie bleaching upon many other southern battlefields ; others have 



488 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 



fallen a prey to disease or age, whilst but a remnant of the grand old Army 
of the Potomac is left to' participate in the reunion of this day. 

Gettysburg ! The slaughter on your fields was not in vain ; fi-om your 
green slopes the tide of rebellion ebbed and shrank, until, month by month, 
it sank lower and lower, and finally disappeared, and at last the old flag 
floated once more over "a union, one and inseparable." 



Comparative Table showing Losses of the Army of the Potomac, of the Army 
of Northern Virginia, of the Troops who fought the first day, and their 
several ratios. 





<u 
be 
a 

be 


KlI.r.ED AND 
Wnu.VDED. 


5 


.2 

"a 
n 

a 
o 

3 
o 


o 


Teoops. 


c 

a 

3 


.2 t- 


5i* 
a 

03 C 

oE 


Aimy of the Potomac: 
Troops engasPil on first day 


17.01)0 


4,S23 
12,903 


28.3 
19.5 

21.3 


3,882 
1,371 


8,704 
14,286 


51.2 
21.6 






Total, 


ss.ooo 

30,000 
3t.,00O 


17,727 


5,253 


22,990 


2rr.7 






Army of Northern Virginia: 
Troops engaged on first day 


7,001 

s,::97 

15,29S 
32,983 

3,483 

1,178 
161 


23.3 

21.2 


1,580 
3,570 


8,5S1 
11,867 


2S.6 
30.4 






Total 


69, OW 
152,000 

8,200 
&,.505 
2,509 


22.1 


.5,150 


20,443 


29.6 








21.7 


10,408 


43,388 


28.5 






Union troops engaged on first day: 


42.2 
18.1 
6.1 

28.3 


2,190 

1,677 
15 


5,673 

2,855 
176 


39.2 


Elerenth Corps, t 


43.9 
7.1 






Total 


7,300 


4,822 


3,88? 


8,704 


51.2 







♦ExcliiQing Stannard's Br'gade. I 

tExclud'ng Steinwehr's Division. 1-None of which were engaged on first day. 

JExcluding Sixth Regiment U. S. Cavalry. J 

Taking the aggregate loss of both armies as a basis, the ratio of loss, as 

between their several parts, shows as follows:— 

Ratio . 

Whole loss, both armies, 28.5 of number engaged— 100.0 

Army of the Potomac, 27.7 " " 97.1 

Army of Northern Virginia, 29.6 " " 103.8 

Union side, first day, 51.2 " " 379.6 

Rebel side, first day, .- 28.6 " "• 100.3 

Union army, first day: 

Ratio. 

First Corps, 69.2 of number engaged— 242.8 

Eleventh Corps, 43.9 " " 154.0 

Buford's Cavalry, 7.1 " " 24.9 




ft 




Pen?isylvania at Gettysburg. 489 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

90TH REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

September 3, 1888 
ADDRESS OF BREVET-COLONEL A. J. SELLERS 

COMRADES, hulies and gentlemen: — Gettysburg! If ever there be con- 
secrated ground, then you can well say, naught is more hallowed ex- 
cept the path the Savior of the world wended, as he ascended the 
rugged heights of Calvary. As he died for the salvation of men, so our com- 
rades died to make men free. 

Gettysburg, so often quoted as the high water-mark of the rebellion, 
was truly the turning point in the war for the preservation of the Union. 
The magnitude of the conflict, and its far-reaching consequences, give it 
rank among the world's greatest battles. As the years roll by its interest 
increases, and these memorial shafts are erected in commemoration of the 
great deeds of the heroes who here gave their all, their lives, that the 
Nation should, under God, have a new birth of freedom, and that the 
government of the people, by the people and for the people should not 
perish from the earth. So spoke the immortal Lincoln, on yonder hill, in 
1863. 

"If General Lee wants provisions, let him go and look for them in Penn- 
sylvania," was the reply sent from the Richmond authorities; and this 
was the popular Southern feeling. For this purpose did we find General 
Lee massing his forces in Pennsylvania, July, 1863, concentrating in the 
vicinity of Gettysburg. Ewell and Early had passed through the town 
a few days before apparently marching on Harrisburg, with Philadelphia 
and Washington as objective points. Ascertaining that the Union army 
was in closer promixity than he had anticipated, he intended to seek a 
defensive position, and so assured his lieutenants — thinking he would 
have ample time to select and occupy such a one. Gettysburg was the 
point of concentration decided upon, by way of the southern and western 
routes. General Meade was equally desirous of securing the advantage 
of a defensive position, and he selected for the advance two of his subord- 
inate men, noted for quickness of perception, promptness of decision and 
gallantry on the battlefield — Reynolds and Buford — to operate his left 
flank. 

Buford took in the situation at once, and on the early morning of July 1, 
dismounted his two brigades. Gamble's and Devin's reducing thereby his 
command one-fourth to care for the horses ; and at about 8 o'clock in the 
morning the cavalry engaged Heth's Division of Hill's Third Corps In- 
fantry, Archer's and Davis' brigades, they supposing their opponents were 
infantry. A severe struggle took place on the banks of Willoughby Run. 
Buford had his artillery admirably posted. His object was simply to 



♦Organized at Ph^IadolpUia from October 1, 1S61 to March 10, 1S62, to serve three years. 
It was consolidated with the 11th Penna., November 26, 1S64. 



490 Pennsylvania at Oettyshurg. 

retard the enemy until Reynolds' First Corps, which was near at hand, 
could be placed in position ; they having that morning made a forced march 
from Marsh Creek, about five miles from Gettysburg. 

The gallant Reynolds, having been informed of the opening of the battle 
by Buford, proceeded in advance of his infantry column, following the 
sound of battle, at full gallop, to bring the assurance of speedy relief 
to our cavalry and its valiant chieftain. And here I desire to speak of 
the magnificent stand made by our gallant troopers, pitted against Hill's 
veteran infantry . 

The First Corps was on the lead in the march from Marsh Creek and 
Emmitsburg, where it had bivouacked for the night of June 30 ; the Nine- 
tieth that day having made a march of twenty-three miles, through mud 
and rain. General Reynolds commanded the First Corps and the ad- 
vance of the Army of the Potomac — the First, Eleventh and Third Corps. 
Soon after his arrival, about 9.45 o'clock a. m., in making dispositii)n of 
his command, he was too early made immortal, and in the glory of his 
manhood (but forty-three years of age), rapidly rising to the zenith* of 
fame — he fell upon his native soil, a martyr to his country, and lamented 
throughout every loyal state of the land he loved. The position selected 
for the First Corps, under the direction of General Reynolds, was an in- 
ferior one, in comparison to the strategic one of Cemetery Hill, and know- 
ing that the enemy were in advance of us, and that Lee's forces could 
bo concentrated somewhat sooner, he chose the more indefensible one to 
fight upon, so that in the event of disaster, our advancing troops could 
occupy and fortify Cemetery Hill, a powerful line of defense, with Gulp's 
and Powers' Hills on the right and the two Round Tops on the left. As 
he approached Gettysburg he noticed the magnificent position of Cemetery 
Hill; it could not, in fact, have escaped his trained military eye. Had he 
occupied that position on the first day, the overwhelming numbers of 
Ewcll's and Hill's Corps, would have driven the First and Eleventh Corps 
from it, and perhaps precipitated a disaster dreadful to contemplate. 

Cutler's Brigade of Wadsworth's Divi.sion (Seventy-sixth and One hun- 
dred and forty-seventh New York and Fifty-sixth Pennsylvania Volun- 
teers) led the advance of the First Corps, facing the west, north of the 
then unfinished railroad. The Ninety-fifth New York, Fourteenth Brook- 
lyn, with Hall's Second Maine Battery, were located south of the I'ailroad 
cut. The Fifty-sixth Pennsylvania Volunteers, Colonel J. W. Hofmann, 
of Philadelphia, delivered the first infantry volley. On their left was the 
road from Chambersburg to Gettysburg, and still further to the left was 
the Hagerstown road; upon these roads Hill's Corps was moving. Be- 
tween these roads is the historic Reynolds' Grove, extending westward 
to Willoughby Run. Both armies wanted possession of these woods to 
cover their movements. General Reynolds ordered the Iron Brigade to 
enter. They pushed forward and were confronted by Archer's Tennessee 
Brigade, who had just crossed the run, and by a brilliant movement of 
Fairchild's Second Wisconsin and Colonel Morrow's Twenty-fourth Michi- 
gan, of the Iron Brigade, turned the right flank of the Confederates, cap- 
turing several regiments (upwards of five hundred men), including their 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 491 

brigade commander, General Archer, driving the remainder of the brigade 
beyond the stream at the bayonet's point. 

Pending this movement is when the gallant Reynolds fell, supposed to 
have been shot by a sharpshooter. Heath's Division now pressed forward 
upon our right flank and attacked Cutler's Brigade, front and flank, they 
having located en echelon. Hall's Second Maine Battery here lost a gun, 
which was subsequently recaptured. Two regiments of Davis' Mississip- 
pians, to avoid a withering concentrated fire, were forced into the railroad 
cut and there captured, with their colors. This fortunate occurrence par- 
tially relieved Cutler's Brigade. During a lull, Heth reorganized his shat- 
tered division to await the assistance of Pender's Division, for a fresh 
attack. Four weakened brigades had been contending with eight weU 
filled Confederate brigades, who here found out that their sudden attacks 
en masse were more dangerous and more difficult of execution along the 
open country of Pennsylvania, than among the thickly wooded settlements 
of Virginia, where they did not stand in dread of slanting fires. The 
remainder of the First Corps were marching into position on the right, 
it being Doubleday's and Robinson's divisions, the former commanded 
by General Rowley, Doubloday having succeeded Reynolds. At the same 
time Pender's Confederate Division was being deployed and the engage- 
ment renewed with increased vigor. 

The Bucktail Brigade, under Colonel Roy Stone, was now placed north 
and adjoining the Reynolds' Grove, fighting with conspicuous bravery, 
shouting "we have come to stay," and Riddle's Brigade, located south of 
the grove (faciaig the west), with no wood to rest upon to disguise its weak- 
ness, was our extreme left, where they felt the power of the immense 
force arrayed against them. Rowley's Brigade, under Colonel Biddle, 
confronted what seemed to be a division coming down upon their front 
from the west and south in heavy lines, and upon his flank Brockenbrough's 
Virginians emerged under cover of the woods. Cooper's Union battery 
was wheeled into position. Terrible rents were made in the advancing 
lin.es, but closing up they came on undaunted. Hill at this time had 
Pender's Division of four brigades, and Hetb's four, making eight large 
brigades to six of the First Corps. Pender and Heth by this time de- 
veloped their full strength and faced the Fii'st Corps with nearly three 
times as many men, anci their line connected on their left with Rodes' 
Division of Ewell's Corps, who had so opportunely arrived from Carlisle. 
At this juncture our regiment, the Ninetieth Pennsylvania Volunteers, 
went into position under the fire of t'ne guns stationed on Oak Hill, and 
we, being on the extreme right of the First Corps, were obliged to in 
part refuse, or face the north. Our general line of battle was facing the 
west, frequently en cclielon, and upon our regimental front was O'Neal's 
Alabama Brigade, and Page's Virginia Battery stationed at the red barn, 
where they suffered so severely, losing fully one-half their men in killed 
and wounded. Upon Oak Hill, enfilading our line of battle, was Carter's 
Battalion of Artillery, Rodes' line of battle facing the south and east, 
Iverson on our left, Daniel and O'Neal in the center, and Doles far be- 
yond, whose direct line of fire was to the left of the Eleventh Corps; Ram- 
seur's Brigade was in reserve, but subsequently engaged. A portion of 



492 Pennsylvania at Getty shurg. 

our brigade took advantage of a stone fence, which protected us from 
view, and as Iverson's North Carolinans advanced, which was about 2.30 
o'clock, we delivered such a deadly volley at very short range, that death's 
mission was with unerring certainty, and so destructive were the volleys 
we rapidly delivered that we followed it up with a charge, ordered by the 
plucky Baxter, which resulted in the capture of three regiments of the 
brigade. This was a decisive blow, but we could not withstand the suc- 
ceeding lines of battle, and the enfilading artillery fire from Oak Hill. 
Confederate Rodes, in his report, speaks of his command being subjected 
to a murderous enfilade and direct infantry fire from the time it com- 
menced its advance. 

O'Neal's troops felt confident of turning our right — the force of the 
attack fell upon the Ninetieth Pennsylvania Volunteers, your regiment- 
but they were repulsed with heavy loss and the remnants thereof hurled 
back; no longer did they attempt an advance, until we were later on 
ordered to a position near the seminary, under cover of the woods. The 
brigade of North Carolinans, under Ramseur, and O'Neal's Alabam.ians 
were held in check by the undaunted courage of the gallant Robinson and 
his troops. The unusually large number of Confederate ofiicers killed 
and wounded, as well as our own, attest to the severity of the conflict 
and the daring of the First Corps. Six brigades constituted the corps, 
commanded by Meredith, Morrow, Robinson, Cutler, Biddle, Roy Stone, 
Paul, Wister, Dana, Leonard and Baxter, and repeatedly thwarted the 
brilliant charges made by an equally valiant foe. Six of these brigade 
commanders were wounded. For over five hours the corps held the enemy 
in check. At last another desparate attack by Daniel, of Rodes' Division, 
was made on Roy Stone's Brigade. The enemy, unable to make any 
impression upon Baxter's and Paul's Brigades of Robinson's Division, 
the blow fell with withering effect upon Roy Stone, shortly before 3 o'clock. 
In two lines the enemy moved forward, parallel to the pike, but the One 
hundred and forty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers sheltered themselves 
behind the railroad cut, the One hundred and forty-third Pennsylvania 
Volunteers, Colonel Dana, on the right and rear of the One hundred 
and forty-ninth. The One hundred and forty-ninth. Colonel Dwight, 
poured two terrific volleys, and by a brilliant bayonet charge, magnificently 
supported by the remainder of the brigade, broke Iheir lines, and in dismay 
they fell back, a beaten foe. Davis' Brigade, of Hill's Corps, failed to 
co-operate. Wister succeeded to the command, Colonel Roy Stone being 
wounded. Once more they moved against the Bucktails (Daniel's and 
Davis, brigades), from the northwest, only to be again repulsed; as also 
in a subsequent attack, the One hundred and fiftieth Pennsylvania Volun- 
teers, under command of Colonel Huidekoper, distinguishing itself by bril- 
liant fighting, ending in a bayonet charge. Huidekoper, though badly 
wounded, held his position. Here Colonel Wister, of the One hundred and 
fiftieth Pennsylvania Volunteers, commanding the bi-igade, was wounded, 
Colonel Dana succeeding him. 

Frequent assaults were made upon Paul's and Baxter's brigades (the 
latter including the Ninetieth Pennsylvania Volunteers), but they stub- 
bornly held the groupd, and would not be driven from their position, until 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 493 

their ammuuition began to gruw scarce, some having fired their last cart- 
ridge, and were supplied from the boxes of their killed and wounded com- 
rades. Their position now became untenable, from the numerically over- 
whelming superiority of our foes, who were taking advantage of the gap 
in our line of battle on our right. 

It was then shortly after 3 o'clock, and the two divisions of the Eleventh 
Corps had been routed ; the First Corps was still continuing the struggle 
in the position it had been defending since morning. Doubleday, appre- 
ciating the new danger to which he was about to be exposed, sent to Gen- 
eral Howard for immediate reinforcements, or the order of retreat. The 
only support he offered Doubleday was Buford's cavalry, who at the time 
was covering with difficulty the retreat of his corps on the extreme right. 
Reynolds' men can never forget how near they were to being sacrificed. 
Howard was subsequently superseded by Hancock, a junior ofiicer, who 
had arrived upon the field of action, about 4.30 o'clock. Pender's Divi- 
sion of eighteen regiments replaced Heth's Division of exhausted and dis- 
couraged troops. Pender, about 3.30 o'clock, assails the three small bri- 
gades of Stone, Morrow and Biddle, now reduced to 1,500. Rodes' Divi- 
sion of Ewell's Corps, no longer assailed by the Eleventh Corps, turn in 
for a general attack, supported by thirty pieces of artillery, and make 
a rapid descent upon the stone wall, behind which a portion of Robinson's 
Division was posted, and thus apparently hemmed in, the order was tjiven 
to abandon the position we so gallantly had maintained. 

It was at this time that General Paul, who commanded the First Bri- 
gade, was so severely wounded in the head, losing both eyes, and the ad- 
jutant of our regiment, David P. Weaver, acting brigade adjutant-general, 
was so severely wounded; and for all this undaunted courage, the First 
Corps was, by a general ofiicer of another corps, unfairly criticised, be- 
cause two regiments of Cutler's Brigade, sooner than be annihilated or 
captured, were ordered to fall back early in the fight, imder cover of Sem- 
inary Ridge; but they subsequently returned, achieved brilliant lustre 
by their heroic conduct and manfully held their position with the brigade. 
Our men made a firm resistance around the seminary, to which point we 
withdrew, under cover of the woods, and by the aid of our batteries 
under Colonel Wainwright, chief of First Corps artillery, beat back the 
first lines of Scales' North Carolina Brigade, wounding both Generals 
Scales and Pender. 

Scales says that he arrived within seventy-five feet of our guns, and 
adds that every field ofiicer but one was killed or wounded. General 
Doubleday, in his report, gives to Baxter's Brigade of Robinson's Division, 
of which the Ninetieth Pennsylvania Volunteers was a part, the credit of 
holding in check the left of Scales' North Cai'olina Brigade, while our 
artillery withdrew along the railroad embankment ; a portion of the Nine- 
tieth having been in support of Stewart's Battery B, Fourth United States 
Artillery, north of the railroad cut. With all our casualties, the First 
Corps lost but one gun (Reynolds' New York Battery), the horses having 
been shot, and there being no time to disengage them. 

About 4.15 p. m. General Doubleday ordered us to fall back from the 
seminary into the town, the Eleventh Corps having been already driven 



494' Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

therein, and many captured in the streets of Gettysburg. It was a stub- 
born retirement — Scales', Daniel's Ramseur's and O'Neal's Brigades almost 
surrounded us — Robinson's men being the last to vacate Seminai'y Ridge. 
The First Corps was broken, but not dismayed, showing the true spirit 
of soldiers. They reached the gate of the cemetery on the hill, which 
was our rallying point. I call to your mind that this magnificent fighting 
by the First Corps was a single line, unsupported, unrenewed — artillery 
on its front and right flank — and chietty unprotected by breastworks It 
was a series of brilliant charges and counter-charges. Could there have 
been a corps up at that time to support the First, how decisive might 
have been the results. A gallant resistance was made by it between Wil- 
loughby Run and Seminary (or Oak) Ridge, against superior numbers, 
viz., Heth's and Pender's Divisions of Hill's Confederate Corps, who by 
their own vastly underestimated report of 15,000, and four brigades of 
Rodes' Division of Ewell's Corps of 8,000, in all 23,000, marched against 
the gallant First Corps, numbering 8,200 maximum (three to one), and 
not until 4 o'clock p. m., did they succeed in dislodging the First Corps 
from their position. The records of war present no instance of more gal- 
lant, stubborn and persistent fighting than that offered by Reynolds' men. 

You will observe that the series of repeated assaults on our lines were iso- 
lated attacks by brigades, and changes of front were frequent. Open ma- 
noeuvring of troops was more fully carried out on the first day's battle than is 
usual, on account of the topography of the country; and the captures made 
by the First Corps were by brilliant manoeuvers — chiefly whole regiments, 
and including the only captured Confederate, unharmed, general oflicer 
(Archer) at Gettysburg, while our losses were isolated men, mostly in the 
falling back from Seminary Ridge, of mixed and indiscriminate commands, 
in the streets and immediate suburbs of Gettysburg, where we were hemmed 
in and the avenues of escape so well guarded. The losses sustained by the 
First Corps after as brilliant fighting as was done at Gettysburg (with all 
due deference to the valor of other corps), attest to the verification of my as- 
sertion. The First Corps lost 5,750 out of 8,200 (70 per cent.); Robinson's 
Division losing 1,600 out of 2,500 engaged. These figures tell eloquently of 
the terrible ordeal through which they passed. The Confederates admit a 
loss on the first day of 7,500, and only a loss of 829 in front of the Eleventh 
Corps ; almost as many casualties as we had effective strength in the entire 
corps. Our loss, however, was proportionately greater by far, than that of 
any other corps engaged, and it inflicted greater damage upon their oppo- 
nents. Its beloved leader fell, but his keen sagacity and military genius gave 
us the advantage of position, which finally resulted in a glorious victory. 

Very diverging figures as to the respective strength of the two armies have 
been given by different authorities ; therefore it is diflicult to clearly establish 
the fact. The Comte de Paris, who is considered as an impartial historian, 
places the Union forces engaged — not what was carried on the rolls, as more 
tolerance was shown in the Union army, as to keeping up the effective 
strength, than in the Southern army — at from 82,000 to 84,000 actual fighting 
strength, and 327 guns, including cavalry and artillery, making proper allow- 
ance for the sick, stragglers, detached men and the like. 

The Sixth Corps, the largest in the army, under Sedgwick, did not arrive 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 495 

on the field until late in the afternoon and evening of the second day, having 
made a forced march of forty miles, being that far away when the battle 
commenced ; consequently they did not all receive the shock of battle like 
unto the other corps. Corse's Brigade, of Pickett's Division, and a regiment 
of Pettigrew's Brigade were left at Hanover Junction ; also three regiments 
of Early's Division at Winchester, and the ratio of deduction, on account of 
sick, etc., like unto our own, made the Confederates' effective force at 'i9,000 
men and 2-50 guns, a difference of about 14,000 men. There has been too 
much exaggeration as to the fighting strength of both armies. 

One peculiarity in the organization of the Confederate forces was that 
troops of the same State almost invariably formed entire brigades ; this was 
rarely the case in our army. 

A finer body of disciplined veterans never followed the stars and bars at 
any previous period ; its morale was of the finest — flushed with victory just 
before at Chancellorsville. Our army had scarcely recovered from that ter- 
rible shock, where our casualties were 17,197, and the Confederates 13,019. 
The losses on this field to both sides were nearly equal, about 23,000 each 

The number of belligerents at the world-renowned Waterloo, June 18, 
1815, was 140,000: Under Napoleon, 72,000; under Wellington, 68,000. The 
timely arrival of Blucher's Prussian corps (fully 50,000) decisively crushed 
out Napoleon's failure to defeat Wellington. At Gettysburg, the combined 
forces aggregated 152,000, with a joint loss in killed and wounded of 31,800, 
in comparison with a joint loss at Waterloo of 30,600, which occupied but 
eight hours, while Gettysburg lasted thi-ee days, but not continuous fighting, 
owing to the battle being precipitated ere the arrival of our entire army. 
Waterloo and Gettysburg rank as the two greatest battles of modern times. 
Gettysburg was conspicuous for hand-to-hand fighting, stalwart men were 
cut down in the saddle; Confederate General Wade Hampton received a 
severe saber wound. The Union and Confederate cavalry on the right hew 
each other with sabers, amid demoniac yells, and on the left, Kilpatrick des- 
perately fought his cavalry, losing one of the bravest cavalry ofiicers that 
ever drew a sword, Farnsworth, who fell at the head of the First Vermont, 
and the Confederate accounts say, though severely wounded, he, by his own 
hand, severed his existence, sooner than surrender. 

In charge, generally one or the other of opposing ranks break before the 
touch of weapons. The desperate but unsuccessful charge, on the evening 
of the 2d, by Averys and Hays' Brigade of "Louisiana Tigers," on the Elev- 
enth Corps, and the batteries of Ricketts and Wiedrich, who expended five 
hundred rounds of canister, was a terrible hand-to-hand conflict, on the north 
side of Cemetery Hill. Individual bravery was here never surpassed. Car- 
roll's Brigade of the Second Corps charged and saved the day. The assault 
by Wilcox, Perry and White, on the second day, penetrating our Third Corps 
line on Cemetery Ridge, where the First Minnesota was almost annihilated, 
equals almost the desperate, but brilliant, attack of Pickett's Division on the 
third day, which history has immortalized. On the left, during the second 
day, the whole space from the Peach Orchard to the Devil's Den had been 
fought over and over; thousands fell in that bloody arena. 
The Ninth Massachusetts Battery particularly distinguished itself in 



496 Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 

a stubborn hand-to-hand encounter with Humphrey's Forty-first Mississip- 
pians— the only regiment that actually crossed Plum Run, dealing death with 
fearful pace. The battery sacrificed itself for the safety of our line; its 
losses being unequaled by any light battery engaged in any battle of the war 
save one, at luka, Mississippi. Its guns were that evening recaptured. In 
the wheat field Colonel Jeffords, of the Fourth Michigan (Fifth Corps), was 
killed by a bayonet thrust. And when, at 1.15 p. m., on the third day, one 
hundred and fifty Confederate guns opened upon our position from Seminary 
Ridge, I shall never forget that artillery cannonade just previous to Pickett's 
charge, which presented one of the most magnificent battle scenes witnessed 
during the war. The hills on either side were capped with crowns of flame 
and smoke, as about three hundred guns, equally divided between the two 
ridges, launched their iron hail upon each other. Dense clouds of smoke set- 
tled over the valley, assisting thereby to cover the subsequent advance of 
Pickett's and a portion of Hill's command. The shells went hissing and 
screaming on their errand of death, through the dense vapor; numbers ex- 
ploded over the valley, apparently with venomous impatience, as they met 
each other in mid-air, lighting up the clouds with smoke-like flashes of lurid 
lighting. While this grand artillery duel was in progress, with the ther- 
mometer indicating eighty-seven degrees in the shade, Pickett's the last divi- 
sion to reach the field, and the only Confederate division that had not been 
engaged, followed with his world-renowned charge of Virginia troops, and 
a portion of Hill's Corps. In three lines, with inadequate support, they 
press forward on their fatal march, taking and dealing death at every blow. 
Like leaves in autumn gales, they drop along the line. The summit is 
reached! Meade's line is broken in the very center of our position, crown- 
ing Cemetery Heights with the flag of Virginia and the Confederacy ; they 
bear themselves with a gallantry that cannot be surpassed. Into their 
ranks we pour a deadly fire, before which the Confederate line curls and 
withers like leaves in the flames. No panic seized the Union troops; with 
one spontaneous effort officers and men fell upon them like an avalanche, 
and the flag of the Confederacy drops on the high tide of the rebellion — Get- 
tysburg is won ! 

A desperate attempt was made to drive us from Culp's Hill on the morn- 
ing of the 3d, after we had recaptured our vacated works, and- from the 
Round Tops on the afternoon of the 2d ; and while all efforts to turn our 
flanks failed the Confederates, notwithstanding, exhibited a degree of valor 
unsurpassed by any troops of modern times. It was truly, jointly, American 
valor. 

The fighting of our batteries throughout was of the grandest and most 
fearless character, frequently hand-to-hand, an example of which is seen in 
Cushing's grand defense and noble sacrifice. The brilliant manoeuvring and 
charges to and from, on the field of the First Corps, resulted in the capture 
of entire rebel regiments and a general officer; and when overwhelmed, the 
disciplined withdrawal of the First Corps, fighting and disputing the ground 
foot by foot, won for them the admiration alike of friend and foe. 

The contest of the first day, I am sorry to say, has by some been underesti- 
mated, who prate that the battle of Gettysburg was fought only by the con- 



Pennsylvania at Getti/shiirg. 497 

testants of the second aud third days. The First Corps opened the battle 
and was in at the final blow. Ou the second day it was divided. 

Wadsworth's Division at Gulp's Hill, prolonging the line of the Twelfth 
Corps on the evening of the 2d, assisted in the repulse of a ferocious attack 
by Ewell. Robinson's Division was in support of the Third Corps, after 
their repulse early on the evening of the 2d. On that eventful Friday of the 
3d, Doubleday's Division was on the left of the Second Corps, where the 
stalwart Green Mountain boys, under Stannard, received their baptismal fire 
and so brilliantly crushed in the flanks of Pickett's and Wilcox's men, at that 
most decisive hour, leaving no silver lining in the clouds that hung so darkly 
over the field, to cheer the drooping spirits of the foemen worthy of our steel. 

Who can measure the evils that would have resulted had our erring breth- 
ren succeeded. Possibly we should now have a dismembered republic, slav- 
ery still in existence, and woe and humiliation beyond conjecture; but it was 
decreed otherwise. To an All-wise Providence we ascribe praise and 
thanksgiving . 

The war is over. In a day the two armies returned to peaceful citizen- 
ship, and no punishment was inflicted on the vanquished. Against a foreign 
foe the blue and the gray would merge wholly into the red, white and blue. 
True, the resentments of the war linger here and there, but chiefly, like the 
scattered flashes of the lightning on the edge of a thunder-cloud just 
passed by. 

The Confederate soldier believed equally with us that he was fighting for 
the right, and maintained that faith with a courage that fully sustained the 
reputation of "American" valor, and yet, one side or the other was wrong. 
The God of battles decided for liberty and nationality. The outgrowth of 
their failure has been the magnificent development of the South, and the hills 
and mountains are yielding up their treasurers, to the founding and building 
of new Birminghams and Shefllelds. 

Take, for instance, the construction of railroads during the present year. 
The South is far ahead. California first, but Georgia next, with one hun- 
dred and ninety-five miles; then Alabama, one hundred and forty-six miles. 
The greatest activity is thus to be seen in the South.. These enterprises open 
and develop territory, and invite emigration to a new agriculture and to 
mines of wealth. 

The youth of the land are now taught and imbued with the sentiment that 
this republic is not a confederacy of independent States, but a Nation, with 
power to use the last dollar and enlist the last man to maintain the authority 
of the Constitution and the supremacy of the flag. It required complete and 
utter exhaustion, so as to leave no truce to recuperate for subsequent agita- 
tion; hence to close the conflict in the early years of the rebellion, would 
have left an unconverted and unreconstructed people. 

I call to mind, how often do we hear that the "pensioner" is a term of re- 
proach, instead of honorable recognition of the country's gratitude. These 
men, at a compensation of $13.00 a month, left behind them prospect* for 
promotion in their respective vocations ; in most cases gave the best period 
of their life, and for three years or more, marched under blazing suns, slept 
upon the ground, breathed the miasma of the swamps, racked with fevers, 
endured the horrors of the prison-pen, and amidst shot, shell, and saber- 



498 Pennsylvania at Oettysiurg. 

thrust, kept their colors aloft to eventual triumph, which secured for the 
people of the Republic and their descendants, civil and religious rights and 
business opportuntiies unsurpassed, if even equaled, by any other nation. 
The spirit of patriotism will ever continue and protect these grand results. 
We are a Republic ! a tried Republic — tried in the crucible of fire — enduring 
to the end of time. 

Comrades, age, disease and death are fast thinning our ranks. Our active 
service will soon be only glorious memories for the inspiration of others. Our 
story will be the recruiting sergeant of coming generations. Two grand 
facts stare us in the face, facts standing like monuments at the beginning 
and close of our grand old Army of the Potomac. It owes its existence to 
the masterly organizing abilities of McClellan and ended the war under the 
superb generalship of Grant. As we recall the memories of the dead, the 
spirits of all the warrior heroes of the past come floating before us. Wash- 
ington and his generals ! Enrolled in their company and encircled with their 
glory, are Grant and McClellan, Meade and Reynolds, Hooker and Han- 
cock, Burnside and Kearny, Thomas and McPherson, Sedgwick and Sum- 
ner, Warren and Sykes, Custer and Kilpa trick, Farragut and Foote and 
last, our lamented Sheridan, who so gallantly plucked victory from defeat. 

Let us recall to mind that noblest of historical groupings, when Lee, the 
brilliant strategist, surrendered to the greatest soldier of his time, the la- 
mented Grant, and there sealed anew the life of the nation ; and last, but 
not least, the rank and file— whose glittering walls of steel environed and 
encompassed that brave and fearless band of Southern soldiery at Appomat- 
tox. 

But who shall tell of the unknown heroes who have fallen, unmarked, un- 
honored and unsung? 

What bright hopes may there be buried, 

Who the slain, "no one can say;" 
Yet we know "somebody's darling" 

Sleeps on yonder hill to-day. 

On his grave the sunlight lingers. 

And the slivery moon-beams fall; 
Though he sleeps far, far from kindred — 

Sleeps until the last great call. 

Who shall eulogize those of lower rank, who, upon the field of battle, have 
in their places displayed a degree of courage rarely excelled, seldom equaled? 
Who shall record the sacrifices of the humble and lowly soldier or sailor? 
While much depended upon the commander of an army, yet the personal ef- 
forts would avail nothing if not seconded by the heroism and devotion of their 
men. 

Twenty-five years have passed since you stood in battle array on this 
sacred spot, consecrated by the blood of many a true and valiant soldier. 
The echoes and passions of war have faded away. The charm of your sol- 
dier life, its bonds of friendship and its glorious memories stUl linger We 
have met to-day to dedicate two monuments to mark the two positions of the 
old Nintetieth Pennsylvania Volunteers, in which you so faithfully served — 
your watchword, "one country and one flag." Those sacred folds that we 
followed in war and cherish in peace, are now in the hands of the gallant de- 
fenders. Sergeants William H. Paul, Thomas E. Berger and Johnson Roney, 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 499 

who carried them ou hard-fought battlefields, and beneath their precious 
folds fell Sergeant Roney, maimed for life. Comrade John C. Bowen touches 
elbows with us here, under the same old brigade flag that he so bravely car- 
ried aloft a quarter of a century ago. I quote — "Proud memories of many 
fields * * * Sweet memories of valor and friendship. * * * Sad 
memories of fallen brothers and sons, whose dying eyes looked last upon their 
flaming folds. * * * Grand memories of cherished virtues, sublime by 
grief. * * * Exultant memories of the great and final victory of our 
country, the Union and the righteous cause. * * * Thankful memories 
of a deliverance wrought out for human nature, unexampled by any former 
achievement of arms. * * * Immortal memories, with immortal honors 
blended, tv.'ine around the splintered staffs and weave themselves amidst the 
fabrics of our country's flag, war-worn, begrimed, and baptized with pre- 
cious blood." 

The statistics of the War Department show that you entered the fight 
with two hundred and eight officers and men, and after a contest of three 
hours, exhausted your cartridges. 

We left the field, when commanded, with a list of casualties amounting to 
ninety-four, equal to forty-eight per cent. Your position was one of great 
danger, and, in military parlance, the post of honor, being on the extreme 
right of the First Corps. Rodes' Division of Ewell's Corps kept you ac- 
tively engaged, and you in turn did not forget to help take good care of Iver- 
son's North Carolina Brigade, and grandly repulsed the onslaught made by 
O'Neal's Alabama Brigade. Page's Confederate Battery, located on your 
front, at McLean's red barn, lost very heavily; and frequently Carter's Bat- 
talion of Artillery, stationed on Oak Hill, reminded us that we were in 
ran.ge. Our position was a trying one, and when the Eleventh Corps, who 
failed to connect their left with our right by almost one-half mile, were 
hurled back by Ewell's command, our position was truly then a precarious 
one. As I have already described, after taking up a position with our de- 
pleted numbers upon Cemetery Hill, we supported batteries on the second 
day, and late in the afternoon moved to the left in support of the Third 
Corps, our regimental skirmish line bringing in the Confederate General 
Barksdale, who fell mortally wounded but a short time before, in making 
that brilliant charge with his Mississippi Brigade. On the morning of the 
third day we lay between Cemetery Hill and Gulp's Hill, ready to support 
the Twelfth Corps and a portion of our First Corps under Wadsworth, who 
repulsed the formidable attack of Ewell's to turn our right flank ; and Stuart 
with his Confederate cavalry repulsed by Pleasonton, trying to capture the 
Baltimore pike, so that in the event of disaster, our retreat would be cut 
off, — adroitly conceived, but, through the indomitable bravery of our gal- 
lant soldiers, frustrated. 

During Pickett's famous charge, on the afternoon of the 3d, you were 
brought over on the double-quick to support the Second Corps, and arrived 
just in time to witness the collapse, many of the vanquished Confederates 
passing .through our line to the rear. We were then placed in position in 
front of Ziegler's Grove. So accurate was the fire of the Whitworth guns 
from the Confederate left, that we temporarily withdrew under cover of the 



500 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

grove, from whence we furnished details to the skirmish line, some of whom 

took shelter in 

Those low green tents. 

Whose curtains never outward swing. 

At the recent reunion on yonder hill, a now much-distinguished citizen, 
who fought as a general officer on the other side, manfully proclaimed, in all 
sincerity, that the cause for which they fought was eternally wrong, and 
that we were* eternally right . 

Swords will never again be drawn to sever the Union. The graves of the 
fallen on both sides now bind the nation together, and there is a grand future 
before us. A broader and healthier sentiment prevails, and we look back 
upon the scenes with wonder and amazement. 

In front of Ziegler's Grove you have erected a second monument, whereon 
is inscribed your record in more extended phrase than this representative of 
the stalwart oak tree will warrant us doing. 

The war is over! The dove, which brought the glad tidings of a regene- 
rated world, here is used to symbolize the era of peace and good will between 
man and man. The wearers of the blue and the gray have met each other 
in the field, have manfully fought out their differences, accepted the situa- 
tion, discarded the bitterness and animosities of the war, and now recognize 
that we are all of one country and one flag, desirous only to increase our 
country's greatness and prosperity. 

We have no enmity for those 
Who, by their acts not ours, were foes — 

But charity ; and from malice free, 
Would cherish with sincerity. 

The roll-call shortens fast ; the list of casualties is not yet complete ; the 
strain of that long struggle is fast laying even our strongest low ; we close 
up our thinner ranks, shoulder to shoulder, heart to heart, holding nearer 
and dearer together. 

May the God of heaven bless this day's work, and may it add to the sanc- 
tity of a wedded affection for the land we love, "the land of the free and the 
home of the brave." 



DEDICATION OF MONUxMENT 

91ST REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

September 12, 1889 
ADDRESS OF CHAPLAIN JOSEPH WELCH 

THE Ninety-first regiment Pennsj^lvania Volunteers, was recruited in the 
city of Philadelphia, and mustered into the service of the United 
States December 4, 1861, with the following staff: Colonel Edgar M. 
Gregory; lieutenant-colonel, Edward E. Wallace; raa.ior, George W. Todd; 
adjutant, Benjamin F. Tayman ; quartermaster, Lieutenant George W. 



*Organzied at Philadelphia from September 9 to December 4, 1861, to serve three years. 
On the expiration of its term of service the original members (except veterans) were 
rau;-tered out and the organization composed of veterans and recruits retained in service 
until July 10, lS6o, when it was mustered out. 




1^ 1^1 




Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 501 

Eyre; surgeon, Isaac D. Knight, M. D. ; assistant-surgeon, Charles W. 
Houghton, and chaplain, Joseph Welch. 

The regiment camped on the west bank of the Schuylkill river, at Camp 
Chase, until January 21, 1862, when it embarked for the front, and went 
into camp north of the city of Washington on the Bladensburg turnpike, at 
Camp Stanton. 

March 22 it occupied the Franklin Square barracks, and was employed in 
provost and other duty under the military governor until April 26 when it 
was ordered to Alexandria, Virginia, Colonel Gregory being appointed mili- 
tary governor, and Captain Joseph H. Sinex, of Company D, being provost 
marshal . 

Severe and unenviable service now kept the regiment fully occupied for 
four months. 

On the 23d of August the regiment was assigned to the First Brigade, Gen- 
eral E. B. Tyler, in the Third Division, General A. A. Humphreys, of the 
Fifth Army Corps, General Fitz John Porter, and went into camp at Cloud's 
MUls. 

The brigade at this time being composed of the Ninety-first Pennsylvania 
Volunteers, Colonel E. M. Gregory; One hundred and thirty-fourth Pennsyl- 
vania Volunteers, Colonel M. S. Quay; One hundred and twenty-sixth Penn- 
sylvania Volunteers, Colonel J. G. Elder, and One hundred and twenty- 
ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, Colonel J. G. Frick. 

In consequence of the excitement following the second battle of Manassas, 
the command was kept in motion in the vicinity of the capital, south of the 
Potomac, until September 15 when it joined the pursuit of the enemy under 
Lee, who had crossed the river into Maryland ; pushing on, by a night march 
of the 17th, it reached the battlefield of Antietam on the morning of Septem- 
ber 18 with headquarters at a rail fence crossing a part of the field. 

Remaining in camp here, till the forward movement of the middle of Oc- 
tober, it reached Warrenton, Virginia, October 30; by the middle of Novem- 
ber the division reached and encamped at Stoneman's switch on the Aquia 
Creek railroad, and remained here until the movement for the attack on the 
position of the enemy at Fredricksburg . 

Taking up the line of March, the regiment crossed the river by the upper 
pontoon bridge, marching through the town, aiid formed in line behind a 
graveyard, the stone wall of which afforded some protection against the 
fire of the enemy ; from this point, through the various changes of its position 
on the field, its losses were severe. 

Lieutenant Murphy and a number of men were killed on the field. Major 
Todd and a large number were wounded, the major dying very shortly after- 
wards ; the final charge led by Generals Humphreys and Tyler, which was 
made with the cheers of the men, proved in vain, and met with a heavy loss. 

The last company to recross the river (Company E) made the passage as 
the skirmishers of the enemy entered the town ; with all the experiences the 
regiment was destined to have in the subsequent history of the army, it never 
forgot those of the battle of Fredericksburg. 

The camp of the army was practically continuous varied by an ineffectual 
attempt to move in January, 1863, until April 28, when the manoeuvers'took 
place, resulting in the battle of Chancellorsville . Here the colonel was 

33 



502 Pennsylvania at Oettysburg. 

severely wounded; from the effects of this wound he never entirely recovered, 
and ultimately died. 

The expiration of thje term of enlistment of the regiments of the division, 
except the Ninety-first and One hundred and fifty-fifth Pennsylvania Volun- 
teers, caused the assignment of these to the Second Division composed largely 
of regulars. General George Sykes commanding. The command was sta- 
tioned at Stoneman's switch guarding the railroad about two weeks, and 
then moved to United States Ford on the river, where it remained till 
June 7. 

On the night of June 7, the regiment moved during a heavy rain storm, 
marching all night, halting about 4 o'clock the next morning at Mount Holly 
Church for breakfast. At 7 o'clock the march was resumed, continuing till 
night, and halted at Catlett's Station on the -Orange and Alexandria railroad. 

On the morning of the 9th the march began at 2 o'clock and continued 
under a hot sun till 3 o'clock, going into camp at Manassa,s Junction, c'oing 
picket duty for three days. 

From this point to Gum Springs, halting two or three days, at which time 
General Weed took command of the brigade, thence to Aldie in support of 
the cavalry who were skirmishing with the cavalry of the enemy ; from here 
to Leesburg where the regiment formed picket line, guarding the flank of the 
army as it passed northward. 

Leaving Leesburg about 3 p . m . , crossing the Potomac river at Edwards' 
Ferry, it marched to Poolesville, Maryland, arriving about 9 o'clock; the 
march was resumed the following morning about 4 o'clock, reaching Fred- 
erick City, Maryland, and halting for two days. 

While the regiment was at this point. General Meade took command of 
the Army of the Potomac, General Sykes taking the corps and General R. B. 
Ayres the division. From Frederick City the regiment marched to Union- 
town, bivouacking here in the rain, crossing the South Mountain and halting 
at Boonesboro, on ground rendered familiar by the campaign of Antietam 
the previous year. Here a welcome issue of shoes was made, which had 
become badly needed. Marching thence to Union Mills. 

Having been mustered for pay, the regiment left Union Mills on the morn- 
ing of July 1, marching to Hanover, Pennsylvania, where it halted for a 
brief rest for dinner. As soon as coffee was disposed of, the march was re- 
sumed for Gettysburg, where fighting had already begun ; the tidings of 
which began to arrive in the evening ; at midnight a rest was taken on the 
side of the rodd over which the march lay. 

On the morning of July 2, an early move was made and the regiment was 
thrown into line east of the Baltimore turnpike, a short distance below Get- 
tysburg, at which point Captain Hall of Company E was wounded ; it was 
then moved to a position of support in the center of the line, from which in 
a short time the brigade was taken as a sypport to the Third Corps which 
was being flanked by the enemy. 

The brigade marched up one side of Round Top, as the enemy charged up 
the other side, too late to capture a position that became of inestimable worth 
to us in a few hours. The regiment was then ordered to the right at double- 
quick to support Battery I of the Fifth U. S. Artillery. This position had 
barely been reached when the regiment was ordered back to Round Top, and 



PennsylvanUi at (Jetty,shimj. 503 

drawn up in line in front of Battery D, Fiftti U. S. Artillery which fired 
over it. After collecting the wounded lying in front of the line, the regiment 
during the night threw up a stone wall as a protection from the enemy's 
sharpshooters, who, from Devil's Den, were harrassing the men; General 
Weed commanding the brigade and Captain Hazlett of the battery were both 
killed here. 

On the morning of July 3, the enemy's batteries opened on this position pre- 
paratory to further attempts, our own battery making no reply at the time. 
After various changes which occupied the morning had been made, the artil- 
lery of the enemy opened at 1 o'clock all along the line. This was the pre- 
lude of the serious and decisive effort of the grand charge which began about 
3 o'clock. The enemy advanced in three lines, in splendid order and de- 
terminated persistence. Out battery opened on them with a flanking fire that 
was terrible in its power and fearful in destruction. Three times was the 
attempt made in the face of murderous musketry and artillery that literally 
mowed them down in heaps. The effort was then abandoned and the posi- 
tion was left in our undisputed possession. In the evening our pickets were 
advanced beyond the DevU's Den, meeting no opposition. A heavy rain set 
in during the night, continuing part of the following day, in which the regi- 
ment remained in the position it occupied. A memorable fourth of July to 
us, but whose full significance could not then be foreseen. 

On the morning of the 5th, the skirmish line advanced over the enemy's 
breastworks, capturing a number of prisoners, until they came up with the 
rear guard of the retreating army, when they were called into the regiments, 
which were already on the march along the Emmitsburg turnpike. A heavy 
rain coming on in the afternoon, rendered the camp ground at night literally 
a field of mud. 

At 5 o'clock on the morning of the 7th, the march was resumed, reaching 
Utica. On the 8th, crossed South Mountain and camped near Middletown. 
On the 9th marched to near Boonesboro. On the 10th to near Antietam 
creek. On the 11th and 12th having heavy skirmishing. Marched in line of 
battle >and reached Williamsport, Maryland, where the enemy crossed the 
river. 

July 14, marched to Berlin where the regiment crossed the Potomac. A 
detail was now made of three officers and six men for recruiting service who 
were sent to Philadelphia. The regiment marched to Wapping Heights, 
skirmishing through the gap in time to see the rear of the enemy's army on. 
its retreat. From Wapping Heights to Stony creek, halting for the night. 
Passing Warren ton, it camped three miles beyond the town where it re- 
mained till August 3, when it marched to Beverly Ford on the Rappahan- 
nock and there going into camp. 

September 16, marched to Brandy Station, halted for the night, thence 
marched beyond Culpeper, where it camped tUl October 10. From this date 
the regiment was almost continually on the march for forty-five days, in a 
series of movements that in detail alone, would seem aimless and inexplic- 
able, but were part of a whole, both needful and wise, that for hard work 
varied with a spice of fighting, would be eminently satisfactory to the most 
ardent campaigners. From Culpeper to Raccoon Ford on the Rapidan, 
thence back the following day. In the old camp one night, then to Brandy 



504 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

Station, halting a few hours, then to Rappahannock Station, crossing the 
river and moving up to Beverly Ford. 

The next day the command re-crossed and advanced in line of battle to 
near Brandy Station. At 2 a. m. it fell back and recrossed the river to 
Beverly Ford. In a few hours the regiment was deployed as flankers and 
reached Manassas Plains. About dusk the enemy attacked the Second Corps 
at Bristoe Station, and the regiment went on double-quick to its assistance. 
The attack being repulsed, the march was resumed^ lasting all night, and in 
the morning the command reached Centreville. Resting a few hours, it then 
resumed the march by the Fairfax road to near Fairfax Court House. On 
the afternoon of the following day, it marched back about five miles and 
bivouacked for the night, and reached Centreville on the day following. 

On the 18th, marched to Fairfax Court House. The following day tn the 
old Bull Run battlefield. Left this at 1 o'clock a. m., and marched to Hay- 
market and thence to New Baltimore. 

After building road, the march was resumed to Three Mile Station on the 
Warrenton Branch raUroad. From thence to Rappahannock Station, where 
line of battle was formed and skirmishers thrown out. About dusk a charge 
was ordered, and the forts were captured with a number of prisoners and 
guns. Camping in front of the captured works, on November 8 the com- 
mand marched to Kelly's Ford, where, after a few hours, the river was 
crossed. 

On the lO^h marched to Mountain run where quarters were built and occu- 
pied till the 24th. Starting on the 26th the river was crossed and the regi- 
ment reached Hope Church, halting for the night; then marched to Parker's 
Store where line was formed under a heavy fire of artillery from the enemy. 

The following day moved towards Robertsdn's Tavern and relieved the 
Second Corps; going to the front, laid there till 2 a. m., when the corps 
moved to the right to make a charge ; lying under arms here until the follow- 
ing night when it was withdrawn, some of the men being frozen to death 
during the exposure in the severe cold. 

Then again to the front, relieving the Pennsylvania Reserves December 1, 
after dark ordered to retire as quietly and quickly as possible, moving by 
Robertson's Tavern, recrossed the river at Culpeper Ford, getting breakfast 
about 8 a. m. ; marching all day, halting at night, crossing the Rappahan- 
nock and halting beyond Rappahannock Station. The next day marched to 
Warrenton Junction, thence back to Kettle run ; lying here till the 10th when 
the regiment marched to Bealton and went into camp. Here it lost Captain 
Faust of Company D, by death. The regiment was mustered December 26 
into the service for three years more ; those who did not re-enlist being trans- 
ferred to the One hundred and fifty-fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers. 

December 27, marched to Warrenton Junction, thence, January 2, 1864, to 
Alexandria ; passing through Washington and Baltimore, being entertained 
at the Soldiers' Rest; it reached Philadelphia, marching through the city to 
Independence Hall; after a dress parade, it was dismissed on furlough. 

Headquarters were established on Chestnut street and Lieutenant Shipley 
detailed for recruiting service. 

February 16, 1864, the regiment assembled and marched to the Baltimore 
railroad depot, taking the train to Chester, Pa., where it lay till March 2. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 505 

when it left for the front, in command of Lieutenant-Colonel Joseph H. 
Sinex ; passing through Washington and Alexandria is proceeded to Warren- 
ton Junction and encamped. 

April 30, broke camp and marched to the Rappahannock, crossing the river 
at Rappahannock Station, marched to Brandy Station; moved at midnight 
crossing Rapidan at Germauna Ford, marched dovi^n into the wilderness. 

May 5, the brigade advanced in two lines through dense underbrush, charg- 
ing through an open space, but was repulsed ; it was then reformed under the 
brow of a hill and there stayed. The next morning the regiment moved out 
to protect pioneers throwing up breastworks ; taking position here the enemy 
charged, but lost heavily and retired. From this position the regiment moved 
to Todd's Tavern, where heavy skirmishing and throwing up defenses occu- 
pied the time till the 12th, when the line advanced to attack the enemy's de- 
fenses under a heavy fire ; Lieutenant-Colonel Sinex and Lieutenant Shipley 
were here wounded, and Major Lentz took command. 

In the afternoon the regiment marched to the left in support of the Sixth 
Corps. Moving again to the left toward Spotsylvania Court House, with the 
One hundred and fortieth New York in line, the regiment charged the Gait 
House which was captured. Having been relieved here by a brigade of the 
Sixth Corps which was driven out, the regiment was again ordered to take 
the position; advancing to the attack, under fire of our own guns trained on 
the enemy from which it sufL'erod, it again captured the position; thus march- 
ing, fighting and countermarching, and still fighting, the story of the regi- 
ment is that of the army in the campaign from the Rappahannock to the 
James. 

On the 6th of June, Colonel Gregory, Adjutant Tayman and Quarter- 
master Lentz, rejoined the regiment at Cold Harbor. 

On the 9th the division was reviewed by General Ayres, and the corps was 
reorganized, the Ninety-first regiment being assigned to the Second Brigade, 
Fii'st Division. Moving by Bottom's bridge and White Oak swamp, on the 
13th it crossed the Chickahominy and was thrown into line; marching by St. 
Mary's Church, a crossing of the James river was effected at Wilcox's Land- 
ing and an advance made up the Petersburg road to Prince George Court 
House, where the regiment lay till the ISth, when charging across the Nor- 
folk and Petersburg railroad, it occupied the position. Moving foi-ward 
again, it charged and captured the inner line, with a loss of eighty-two men 
killed and wounded. Immediately throwing up breastworks the command 
lay here till 5 o'clock the next morning when it was moved to the left, still 
moving as the developments of the field warranted, until, charging and driv- 
ing the enemy, the position was captured on which Fort Hell was afterward 
built. Relieved about 11 o'clock p. m. by the Sixty-second Pennsylvania, the 
regiment was changed to another position, and on the 23d was ordered to cap- 
ture breastworks taken by the enemy from the Second Corps on the preced- 
ing day. Charging under a ieavy fire, the works were captured, when the 
Second Corps reoccupied them and the command returned to the camp it had 
left ; it was then moved to the left to support the Sixth Corps which was en- 
gaged with the enemy. The following day it returned to camp on the Jeru- 
salem plank road. While here, the members of the Sixty-second Pennsyl- 



506 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

vania whose term of service was not expiring witli that of the regiment, 
were transferred to the Ninety-first. 

July 6, the regiment began work on what became known as Fort Prescott, 
continuing this until the 30th of that month, when it took part in the engage- 
ment attending the explosion of a mine, which, from its peculiar results, be- 
came known as the Crater. 

August 18, the command moved against the enemy on the Weldon railroad, 
capturing it, and at once throwing up breastworks; the enemy repeatedly at- 
tempted its recapture but were defeated with the loss of the entire brigade 
taken prisoners. 

On the 30th the enemy were driven out of their works and Pegram's house 
was captured. Moving almost daily, and fighting with every move, captur- 
ing, on the 8th of October, the Davis house which was burnt, the regiment 
on the 14th received a detachment of new recruits, and was occupied in con- 
tinued drill the 27th, when a demonstration was made across Hatcher's 
run; Captain Closson was wounded during this demonstration, and died 
shortly afterwards; after the enemy had been driven behind their defenses 
the command returned to its position. 

In December the command moved to the rear of Fort Stevenson, striking 
the Weldon railroad at Jarratt's Station, skirmishing and destroying the rail- 
road all night, reaching nearly to Hicksford, returning to its position at Fort 
Stevenson. 

February 6, 1865, started at 4 o'clock a. m., toward Hatchers run; having 
deployed skirmishers, the enemy's works were struck about 4 p. m. A 
charge was made and repulsed, the command being fired upon through mis- 
take, by a division of our Sixth Corps. Captain Edgar was killed. Captain 
Finney captured, and the colors only saved by Sergeant Devereux of Com- 
pany C, stripping them from the staff and concealing them on his person; 
the command then returned to camp near Hatcher's run. 

March 29, the command moved out at 3 a. m., proceeding about twelve 
miles on the Quaker road, when the enemy was met and driven some dis- 
tance; halting till about 11 p. m., when an advance was made of about a 
mile, and then entrenched. The following morning the command moved for- 
ward, and found the enemy near Dabney's Mill ; halting here till the next 
day, were then relieved by the Second Corps, moved to the left, and thrown 
into line behind Gravelly run ; about noon were ordered to the support of the 
Second and Third divisions, which were being driven by the enemy; the ad- 
vance resulted in driving the enemy about four miles to the White Oak road ; 
here the command was ordered to support General Sheridan ; at midnight re- 
turned to its corps; at 4 a. m. again ordered to support Genei'al Sheridan, 
moving against Five Forks. 

The regiment and the Sixteenth Michigan, both under Colonel E. G. Sel- 
lers of the Ninety-first, formed en echelon in rear of the Third Division, ad- 
vanced on double-quick, evidently taking the enemy. By surprise. General 
Warren was here relieved and General Griffin took command of the corps. 
Moving forward in line on the right of the Third Division, along a road 
across which the enemy, posted behind breastworks, was attacked, and near- 
ly all captured, the command still pushed forward till night when it returned 
and camped on the Five Forks road. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 507 

The following day April 3, about noon, the command moved out to the 
South Side railroad, striking it at Church Road crossing and formed. across 
it with pickets out, and halted for the night. The following daj' it again 
moved forward, driving the enemy as far as Sailor's creek, where it en- 
trenched ; that night it was ordered to support General Custer, and captured 
two hundred wagons, after which it returned to its position. 

The next day the movement was resumed, and the march lasted till nearly 
midnight of the 8th ; the next day it marched again reaching nearly to Ap- 
pomattox Court House about 8a. m . , when the command was drawn up in 
line with skirmishers deployed, and advanced under cover of a ridge; here 
the enemy sent in a flag of truce, and hostilities ceased. 

The command marched through the town and was placed in position be- 
yond, the brigade being ordered to receive the arms of the enemy. 

The following morning, the command moved closer to the position of the 
enemy, and was drawn up, right resting on Appomattox creek, and received 
the guns as they were stacked by the enemy, as they came up by divisions. 

At dusk the command returned to its position of the preceding night, and 
remained here two days ; it then started for Burkeville Junction, stopping 
for the night near Farmville, where the news was received of the assassina- 
tion of President Lincoln. 

By easy marches the command moved toward Washington, passing 
through Petersburg, and being reviewed at Richmond by General Halleck. 
The regiment camped near Alexandria until July 10, having participated in 
the grand review of the army by President Johnson and General Grant; it 
was mustered out of the service and returned to Philadelphia, where it ar- 
rived on the morning of July 12, 1865. 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

93^ REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

Septembek 11, 1889 
ADDRESS OF CHAPLAIN J. S. LAME 

THE memory of the hero is the treasure of his country. We are often 
too near events to see their importance. You may hold a dime so near 
the eye as to hide the whole material universe. The further we re- 
cede from the events of the last war, the vaster they become and the more 
^important they appear. Many battles are fought and victories won and 
little has been decided. But there are destiny-deciding contests — hours of 
supreme immortal moment when the tide of human history turns and turns 
forever. Such were the mighty contests of Thermopylae, Hastings, Water- 
loo, Yorktown and Gettysburg. The Ninety-third Regiment of Pennsylvania 

♦Organized at Lebanon from September 21 to October 28, 1861, to serve three years. 
On the expiration of its term of service the original members (except veterans) were 
mustered out and the organization composed of veterans and recruits retained In service 
until June 27, 1S65, when it was mustered out. 



508 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

Volunteers was recruited at Lebanon in Lebanon county. Made up of volun- 
teers from Berks, Montour, Dauphin, Montgomery, Centre, Clinton and 
Lebanon counties, a regimental organization was effected by the selection of 
the following officers: James M. McCarter, colonel; John W. Johnston, lieu- 
tenant-colonel; John C. Osterloh, major; William A. H. Lewis, adjutant; 
John S. Schultze, quartermaster; Richard S. Simington, surgeon; George 
W. Mays, assistant surgeon. 

On the 12th of September, 1861, Rev. James M. McCarter, who had been 
a chaplain in the Fourteenth regiment during the three months service, re- 
ceived authority from the Governor of Pennsylvania to raise a regiment to 
be known as the "Lebanon Infantry." Camp Coleman, on the fair grounds 
in Lebanon, was immediately established and recruiting was quickly com- 
menced and rapidly completed. While in camp a beautiful silk flag, the gift 
of G. Dawson Coleman of Lebanon, was presented to the regiment. 

On the 13th of November, the State colors were delivered by Governor An- 
drew G. Curtin. A liberal sum of money was contributed by the people of 
Lebanon and vicinity for the support of the families of those who had en- 
listed . 

Ou the 20th of November, the regiment struck tents and proceeded to 
Washington, where, after a brief stay at the Soldiers' Rest, it went into 
Camp Fort Good Hope. It was first armed with Belgian rifles, but before 
the opening of the Peninsular campaign these were substituted by Spring- 
field muskets. On the 22d of January, 1862, it moved to Tennallytown and 
was here assigned to Peck's Brigade of Couch's Division, Fourth Corps, 
under command of General E. D Keyes. The brigade consisted of the 
Ninety-eighth Regiment Pennsylvania, Colonel J. F. Ballier; the One hun- 
dred and second Pennsylvania, Colonel Thomas A. Rowley; Sixty-second 
New York, Colonel Riker ; Fifty-fifth New York, Colonel DeTrobriand. At 
the conclusion of the Peninsular campaign, the Fifty-fifth New York was 
detached and the One hundred and thirty-ninth Pennsylvania was added. 

March 10, 1862, the regiment moved on the Manassas campaign. On the 
26th, it embai'ked for the Peninsula. 

May 5, the command took an active and important share in the battle of 
Williamsburg, suffering a loss of six killed and twenty wounded; Captain 
Green B. Shearer, was among the killed, and Lieutenant-Colonel Johnston 
had his horse shot under him. In a congratulatory order issued by General 
Couch he says: "General Peck, with his brigade, had the good fortune to be 
in the advance, and arriving on the ground at, a critical time won a reputa- 
tion to be greatly envied." At Fair Oaks the regiment distinguished itself, 
obstinately holding a most important and greatly exposed position, suffer- 
ing the severe loss of twenty killed and one hundred and eight wounded and 
twenty-one missing ; this loss occurring in eight companies ; companies A and 
F being on picket. Lieutenant John E. Rogers was among the killed and 
Captain Alexander C. Maitland mortally wounded. Colonel McCarter, Cap- 
tain Mark and Lieutenant McCarter and Keller were among the wounded. 
Captain Dougherty was struck, but having a watch and a bible on his per- 
son, these articles received and relieved the force of the ball. A corres- 
pondent of the New Y'ork Tribune, in his admiration of the discipline and 
sterling qualities displayed by the regiment on this sanguinary field, said: 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 509 

"Take the case of the Ninety-third Pennsylvania ; this thoroughly trained 
body of troops fought, were driven back from their position but not broken, 
halted at word of command, wheeled, fired, retreated, halted, loaded and 
fired again and came off the ground in perfect order, with their colors flying 
—a striking proof what the success of battles is in the discipline of the 
troops." At Chantilly it supported a battery. 

The regiment was in the movement for relief of the garrison at Harper's 
Ferry, but the position having been surrendered, moved to Antietam, making 
a forced march of some thirty miles from sunrise to 9 p. m. During the pur- 
suit of the retreating enemy the regiment was in the advance. In the battle 
of Fredericksburg, on the 13th of December, the regiment, now in the Sixth 
Corps, under General Smith of Franklin's Grand Division, crossed the river 
and was held in reserve during the engagement. In the spring of 1863, 
under General Hooker, it formed a part of the Sixth Corps, which was com- 
manded by General John Sedgwick. The Ninety-third, in command of Cap- 
tain Long, crossed the Rappahannock on the 2d of May. At daybreak on 
the 3d, it formed in line. General Wheatou commanding the brigade, says: 
"The corps was formed with the greatest expedition and pushed on to a 
point called Salem Heights. I was ordered by General Newton to move 
with two regiments to the right of the road and to take general directions of 
the operations on that portion of the battle-ground. The Ninety-third and 
One hundred and second Pennsylvania were soon engaged under a terrific 
fire of musketry from a hidden foe." 

On the afternoon of the 4th, Wheaton's Brigade was attacked but easily 
repulsed the assailants, taking nearly two entire regiments prisoners. The 
loss to the Ninety-third in the engagements was six killed, among whom 
M'^ere Lieutenants Washington Bura and William D. Boltz, forty -four 
wounded and twenty missing. While the two great armies, during the 
month of June, were manoeuvring for position to fight a mighty duel — to 
ascertain the enemy's position, the regiment crossed the Rappahannock, 
when it was developed that Lee had pushed the head of his column north- 
ward for an invasion of Pennsylvania. The march for Pennsylvania now 
commenced, the regiment moving by way of Manassas and Centi'eville . 
The Sixth Corps formed the right wing of the army. 

On the 1st of July, it arrived at Manchester, Maryland. During all the 
preceding day the regiment had trod the dusty heated highway. At 8 
o'clock in the evening, worn with the long and weary march, they stretched 
their aching limbs in the shelter of a friendly forest. Scarcely had they 
thrown themselves upon the ground, whe;a an aide-de-camp arrived from 
the blood-baptized heights of Gettysburg announcing the death of General 
Reynolds, and that the stupendous conflict had commenced, and requesting 
regimental commanders to address their troops in language becoming the 
grandeur of the crisis, and bearing an order for the immortal Sixth— a corps 
that had never failed to achieve the possible, to hasten to the defense, to 
strike for their altars and their fires, God and their native State. The drums 
beat — "Fall in," leaped from lip to lip, and the host is all astir, swords 
and belts are buckled on, knapsacks slung, weapons grasped, and, form- 
ing into a solid square, they stand determined, defiant. But who shall 
address them? Where are the souls of fire and tongue of flame? They 



510 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

are there. Colonel McCarter, though now an invalid, the genius of elo- 
quence had touched his lips and bade them speak. His rostrum was a 
war-steed, the silence was profound and painful, not a foot rose or fell, 
breathing seemed suspended, all nature appeared as awe-struck at the 
sublimity of the scene, stood silent, solemn, listening. He who was to 
interpret and give tongue to this tremendous silence, began in tones low and 
tremulous, his voice, acquiring force and volume as he proceeded, rang 
out on the evening air, solemn and sepulchral as a trumpet from the skies, 
as if God had recommissioned the immortal Moses to reinflame the serried 
hosts of the Lord God about to march to the valley of decision for the 
dread battle of Armageddon. 

My countrymen, comrades-in-arms, Pennsylvanlans:— The destroyer has come; fell 
treason's foul foot has polluted the soil dedicated forever sacred to freedom. Northern 
hetirthstones are threatened; the chains of slavery are clanliing, and they are forging 
fetters to crush your patriotic spirit— the issue is joined, the stupendous conflict has 
commenced. Interest vast as a world, termless as time are at a venture. 

The ninth and nineteenth century, a nation dying or redeemed and regenerated; free- 
dom or slavery are the momentous issues of the hour. Sons of liberty, go forth with 
alacrity to the battle of the civilized world, where God himself mustered the hosts to 
war. A nation is at prayer; patriotism, clothed in saclicloth, has fled to her sanctuary 
and hangs on the horns of the altar, as she pours importunate prayers to the God of 
liottle, to arm you with his own omnipotence. Religious ministers under God's inspi- 
ration lift aloft holy hands and pronounce an apostolical benediction upon your arms. 
A multitude of mothers in Northern homos at this hour of evening sacrifice are going 
to the family altar with a loving mother's bursting heart, turning her eyes gemmed 
with the jewels of sparkling tears, to that spot that holds her boy, prays again and 
rededicates him to his country and to his God. I cannot but imagine that a Lafayette, a 
Kosliiuslio or a Washington, the world's greatest and best, are glancing with fiery eye, 
and again grasping the sword of war to lead you forth to smite the invader. Catch the 
spirit 'of Washington, emulate his illustrious example; he never drew his sword but upon 
his country's enemy, he never sheathed it while his country contained an enemy. Sol- 
diers, we have met before in the shock of battle, where destruction reveled and death 
danced as at a festal scene. Again we go; should you fall, the spot will be forever 
sacred to freedom and a monument immortal as the ages shall arise to your memory. 
A nation will be your mourners, the liberty-loving of every tongue and tribe, class and 
kindred, will tender you the tribute of a tear. "Let us forward then." 

Not a cheer arose, not a murmur was heard; feeling too profound for 
speech filled all hearts. Silently, solemnly and majestically as the ocean 
tide the men move through the aisles of the forest. 

The corps marched until midnight, when it was found that through a 
mistake the wrong road had been taken, and that it had marched several 
miles out of their way. These miles had to be remarched by the foot- 
sore and wear> troops. At break of day, a short halt being called, a few 
fires were kindled and an attempt made to secure a rude breakfast. Some 
were trying to boil coffee when the order sounded "Fall in," and s^ome 
lingering a few moments around the fires, officers approached and kicked, 
over the coffee pots and all. Again the weary march was taken up in' 
heat and dust. Many fell fainting in their tracks, these were loaded 
into the ambulances until they were full, others were pulled aside into the 
shade and left, some possibly to revive and rejoin the regiments, others 
to be overtaken and overwhelmed by bushwhackers. At 9 in the morning, 
the booming of cannon from the distant field was distinctly heard. At 
10 the regiment crossed the State line. She unfurled her colors, beat her 
drums, came to a quickstep and sang "Home, Sweet, Sweet Home." 

About 3 p. m. a halt was ordered, the men too much exhausted to eat. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 511 

threw themselves wearily to the ground and lay like logs. In an hour 
iiu order came to advance into the battle. The corps were promptly in 
motion, the Ninety-third leading the column to the support of the Third 
and Fifth corps which were then hard pressed, Colonel David J. Nevin, 
of the Sixty-second New York, being in command of the brigade. The Ninety- 
third being in the advance, was the fh-st regiment of the corps to get into 
action. Major Nevin in command. General Sedgwick in person led the 
brigade and formed on the brow of a low rocky knoll covered with scattered 
trees, just to the right of Little Round Top, the left of the brigade joining 
with the Pennsylvania Reserves. It got into position just as the troops 
which had been contesting the ground in the open fields along the Em- 
raitsburg pike, broken and almost annihilated, were coming back in dis- 
order, followed by the exultant enemy. The command was ordered to lie 
down and to withhold its fire until the enemy was close upon it. Had 
this order been heeded, the whole rebel line could easily have been cap- 
tured. A premature fire was opened from a part of the line which checked 
the advance. The whole brigade then advanced and after a short contest 
the rebel line was driven in tumult. In the charge the Ninety-third took 
twenty-five prisoners. Just before nightfall, the regiment was ordered 
forward with a regiment of Reserves to retake a battery, which had been 
lost in the early part of the day, but the guns having been removed it 
returned. At night, the men slept for a few hours in the line of battle 
but spent most of the time in removing the wounded who strewed the 
fields in front. Since 8 o'clock on the previous evening the regiment had 
marched thirty-nine miles, had fought three hours and passed an almost 
sleepless night and without food. 

On the afternoon of the 3d the Confederates opened with all theix* bat- 
teries. For two hours, from a space less than two miles, there was an 
incessant cannonade from two hundred guns of the enemy. Upon no battle- 
field of the world's history had such a bombardment ever been witnessed. 
Pollard, in his "Lost Cause," says, "it was absolutely appalling, hills and 
rocks seemed to reel like drunken men, shrieking shell, the crash of falling 
timbers, the fragments of rock flying through the air, the splash of bursting 
shrapnel and the fierce neighing of wounded artillery horses, made a picture 
terribly grand and sublime." During this terrible cannonade the men 
partly sheltered by a stone wall, rocks and trees, hugged closely the ground, 
and at the conclusions of the charge on the left center renewed the picket 
firing and kept it up until dark. During the night the regiment was en- 
gaged in burying the dead and bearing off the wounded. The fourth of 
July was celebrated at the front, the men being ordered on the skirmish 
line on the extreme left where it suffered some loss. At two in the after- 
noon it was relieved. The loss of the regiment was ten wounded, one 
mortally . 

On the 5th it was ascertained that the enemy had retreated and pursuit 
was at once begun. The Ninety-third was detached to guard the corps 
artillery and assist in taking it across the mountains. The duty proved a 
difficult one, the men suffering much from the hardships it imposed. 

On the lOth it was ordered to picket and skirmish duty at the front 



512 Pennsylvania at Oettysburg. 

near Funkstown. The men were eager for a final issue, but much to their 
chagrin it was discovered that the enemy . had escaped ; the men heartily 
dreading another campaign in Virginia. The regiment participated in the 
movement on Mine Run, and went into winter quarters at Brandy Station. 

On the 30th of December, Wheaton's Brigade, of which the Ninety-third 
formed a part, was detached from the main body of the army and sent 
by rail to Washington and thence to Harper's Ferry, loaded on freight 
cars, many of which were without fire, the soldiers suffered terribly from 
the cold, the feet and hands of some were frozen, rendering amputation 
necessary in two cases, and in one proving fatal. The brigade marched 
to Hall town upon its arrival, but soon returned and went into camp at 
Harper's Ferry. The object of the movement was to repel an anticipated 
demonstration of a body of the enemy under General Early. 

On the 7th of February, 1864, two hundred and eighty-four men, up- 
wards of three-fourths of the entire regiment, re-enlisted and were given 
a veteran furlough. Upon their arrival at Lebanon, where the regiment 
had been mustered in, a most enthusiastic reception was tendered them. 
Amid martial music, banners, flags and the waving of handkerchiefs and 
hats, the regiment marched to a bountiful banquet. 

On the 10th of March, the regiment assembled at Camp Curtin, Har- 
risburg, and on the 18th rejoined the brigade at Hall town, eight hundred 
strong. Soon after the regiment returned to Brandy Station. In the 
reorganization of the corps this brigade was transferred from the Third 
to Second Division of the Sixth Corps ; having been armed with Springfield 
rifles, it set out at half past three on the morning of the 4th of May, 
for the Wilderness. During the afternoon of the 5th while marching down 
a narrow road flanked by a heavy undergrowth, without skirmishers or 
flankers, the Ninety-third in the advance, and was just plunging into the 
thick woods to the left of it, when a murderous fire was suddenly opened 
upon it from the right. The regiment halted, faced to the front, delivered 
one volley and charged the enemy, clearing the woods. In this brief en- 
counter the regiment lost twenty-five in killed and wounded among whom 
were Captain Edward H. Rogers, and Lieutenant Maxwell B. Goodrich, 
mortally wounded. General A. P. HUl's corps having arrived, formed, in 
the front, about the middle of the afternoon the attack began, for two 
hours the roar of musketry at close range was incessant. At 6 the regi- 
ment having suffered severely was relieved. Resting on its arms during 
the night, at 4 in the morning of the 6th it advanced into the second line 
of battle to the attack, the second soon became the first line. General 
Wadsworth, putting himself at the head of the Ninety-third, charged down 
the plank road. In these two days of fighting the regiment had eighteen 
killed and one hundred and forty-four wounded. 

On the morning of the 12th it went to the support of the Second Corps 
and took a position to the right of the famous bloody "Angle," and ad- 
vanced to within fifty yards of the rebel works. So destructive was the 
fire opened upon them that in one brief hour the regiment lost four officers 
and seventy-three men killed and wounded. Captain Richard G. Rogers 
was mortally wounded. With the corps the regiment participated in the 
fierce fighting which marked the course of the army to the James river. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 513 

losing men almost daily; and In the engagement on the 18th of May, having 
thirty killed and wounded. It crossed the Rapidan on the 4th of May, 
entering the campaign with seven hundred and fifty men present for duty. 
As it marched from the trenches at Cold Harbor its virtual conclusion, 
it had but three hundred and twenty-five men ; fifteen officers and three 
hundred and ten men having been either killed or wounded, and ninety-five 
sick sent to the rear. Only nine men were captured and they were 
wounded and left on the field. 

From the 4th of May, until the 2d of June, the Ninety-third marched 
three hundred and fifty miles, made twenty -six night marches, was fifteen 
days withotit regular rations, dug thirty rifle-pits, and fought in eight dis- 
tinct battles. During all this time there were but five days in which 
the regiment or some part of it was not under fire, and neither officers 
nor men took off their clothes, seldom their accoutrements. Clothes and 
shoes worn out were replaced by those of dead men, and not until it 
arrived at the James river did the men enjoy the luxury of a bath. 

On the 18th of June, in front of Petersburg, a general advance was 
made, the line pushing close up to the enemy's works. Captain Jacob P. 
Embich was killed and five men wounded. On the 22d it was taken to the 
extreme left, where it supported the Third Division, losing thirteen in 
killed and wounded. On the 9th of July it was ordered from the front, 
and marching to City Point took transports to Washington. Arriving 
in the city the regiment moved rapidly to Fort Washington just as Early's 
skirmishers were advancing over the esplanade. 

On the 12th a general advance was made and the enemy driven at all 
points ; passing through Rockville and across the Potomac the corps was 
kept on the march for nearly a month. General Sheridan took command 
of the army in the Shenandoah Valley on the 7th of August. 

On the 19th of September, the regiment lost seven killed and forty 
wounded. The 21st it was engaged making gallant charges, and suffering 
severe losses. On the morning of the 19th of October, it was driven back 
with the army, but rallied and charged in the afternoon and at night 
tented on the old camp ground. In November, the regiment was ordered 
to Philadelphia and was assigned to duty in the city, and remained until 
after the presidential election, when it returned to camp at Winchester in 
the Shenandoah Valley. About the middle of December, with the corps, 
it returned to the lines in front of Petersburg, where it went into winter 
quarters. Several hundred recruits were received, bringing its strength 
up to near the minimum standard. 

On the 2.5th of March, 1865, the brigade was ordered to advance on the 
enemy's works, and test the strength of the forces occupying them. The 
command charged to the front of his picket line of trenches ; here was 
some delay, other parts of the line not coming up. The line again went 
forward across the plain, captured the outer picket trenches, and charged 
up a second hill, to his main line. Here the brigade halted and was subject 
to a severe enfilading fire. It was soon ascertained that the enemy was 
present in full force, and the command was rapidly withdrawn. The loss in 
this brief engagement was fifteen killed and one hundred and thirty-six 
wounded. Captain George W. Mellinger was among the killed At mid- 



514 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

uight of April 2, the regiment, under the command of Captain B. Frank 
Hean, moved to the front entrenchments in line of battle, forming on the 
picket line in front of Battery Gregg, and at 4 iff the morning with the 
rest of the brigade was ordered to charge the enemy's works, which were 
carried after an obstinate struggle, the colors of the Ninety-third being 
the first planted on the ramparts. After moving a short distance towards 
Hatcher's run the command was ordered to return towards Petersburg. 
In executing this order the regiment was brought in front of a rebel 
battery, which opened with grape and canister. At this juncture Sergeant 
Hiranj Layland led a squad of men to the left of the battery to out- 
'flank it, and coming up within a short distance opened fire, shooting sev- 
eral of the battery horses, and causing the men to desert their guns. At 
the same time the line in front 'charged ; passing on a short distance, the 
line halted and threw up entrenchments. The loss was two killed and 
thirty-one wounded. In the first charge upon the enemy's breastworks. 
Sergeant Charles Marquette distinguished himself by capturing a rebel 
flag for which he received a medal of honor. During the night the enemy 
evacuated Petersburg, and early on the following morning the corps 
moved south to Burkeville Junction. Then ensued the most remarkable 
flight and pursuit the world ever saw. The cavalry hanging like a blood- 
hound on the flanks of the flying foe, and the infantry on the rear. With 
no time to sleep or rest, and nothing to eat, the general-in-chief issued 
his famous "starvation order," appealing to the patriotism and endur- 
ance of the soldier, that as in the past, they had dared death from ball, 
bomb and battery, they would now face death from want of rations, as it 
was impossible to bring up the commissary train. The response to this 
appeal was enthusiatic. On the 6th, the regiment participated in the 
battle of Sailor's Creek. On the 9th, Lee surrendered and soon after the 
corps made a forced march to Danville, to co-operate with Sheridan in the 
defeat of Johnston. After remaining in camp for several weeks, it re- 
turned by rail to Richmond, under the command of Colonel C. W. Eck- 
man, and thence to Washington where, on the 27th of June, it was mus- 
tered out of service. The Ninety-third Regiment Veteran Volunteers has 
a. reputation that no member of that organization need be ashamed of. 
Nay, she has won a grand historic position that the great Keystone State 
and the nation at large can well be proud of. It was composed chiefly 
of the middle classes of society, yoemen, men that sprang spontaneously 
and patriotically to their country's call. On the 9th of September, 1862, 
Rev. J. S. Lane, pastor of the Methodist Episcopal church at Middle- 
town, Pennsylvania was elected and commissioned chaplain of the regi- 
ment, having succeeded Rev. Mr. Quimby, who had died in the service. 
During winter quarters a large log chapel was erected, a literary society 
organized, literature distributed, preaching and meetings held nightly. In- 
tellectual, moral and spiritual welfare of the men being looked after by the 
chaplain, who was always treated with the tenderest respect by the men. 
We may close appropriately in the words of General Wheaton. "The 
great Keystone State has sent few regiments to the field who can return 
showing as handsome a record." 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 515 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

95TH REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

July 2, 1888 
ADDRESS OF WILLIAM J. AYRES, ESQ. 

YOUR faithfulness and devotion has brought you here to dedicate 
this memorial of triumph. You have come here to commit to faithful 
memory ; to mark your page in the story of Gettysburg ; to point to 
an incident in the history of the service of the Ninety-fifth Pennsylvania 
Volunteers . The drama of war is ended ; the discord of battle and of civil 
strife that was once familiar sounds has closed these many years. 

The great whirlwind of battle that swept arolind about here twenty-five 
years ago, has given place to soft summer zephyrs of peace. 

On the fields plowed by fierce artillery, deep dyed with noble blood, the 
wheat and grasses have danced these many summers gone. 

Thus does nature seek to cover up her wounds, but in natural convulsion, 
she leaves^scars for signs that those who study nature can understand. 

And we erect these monuments here, so that those who come here may 
read of a nation's convulsion, in purging herself of the dark spot on the 
stars and stripes. 

We would say nothing unkind or ungenerous of those brave boys in 
•gray who fought against you; they were brave men and believed in their 
cause . 

We claim no rights we do not freely give ; we demand no restraint that 
we do not freely submit to ourselves. 

Y^ielding a full obedience to the constitution and the law, equal rights to 
all, now, as in the past, you are brave men. 

Angels loot downward from the skies 

Upon no holier ground, 
Than where defeated valor lies, 

By generous foeman crowned. 

And we hope that these monuments dedicated at this reunion will be 
memorials of true reconciliation. 

This monument we dedicate is not a monument of sorrow ; twenty-five 
years has brought too many changes to mourn; new joys, new sorrows have 
come to all . 

This is a memorial of honor. 

"In honor of mothers who bade their sons do brave deeds. 

"In honor of wives who wept for husbands who should never come home 
again . 

"In honor of children whose heritage is their fallen father's heroic name. 



♦Organized at Philadelphia from August 23 to October 16, ISCl, to serve three years. On 
the expiration of its term of service the original members (except veterans) were mustered 
out and the organization composed of veterans and recruits retained in service until July 
17, 1S65, when It was mustered out. 



516 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

"In honor of men who counted not their lives dear, when their country 
needed them. 

"Of those alike who sleep beside the dust of their kindred or in nameless 
graves, where only angels stand sentinels till the reveille of the resurrection 
morning. 

"In honor of you with your life's pleasures and opportunities lessened 
by wounds of battle, or seeds of disease from the swamps of the Chicka- 
hominy. 

" In honor of all true men of the 'Ninety-fifth' whom we cannot by name 
identify." 

When Gosline's Pennsylvania Zouaves marched from their camp at Hes- 
tonville that bright October morning, 1861, it was not as soldiers of con- 
quest. But you went forth to save. To save as pati'iots. You did not 
know what was to be the final result when you stood your baptismal fire, 
and saw for the first time your comrades falling with the death wound, 
you were there to save, fighting to save. 

And as a part, a unit, of the unconquerable Sixth Corps, you aided in 
rescuing from the fires of war and death our glorious system of constitu- 
tional government. 

When Mrs. Gosline and other fair ladies of Philadelphia placed this flag, 
their gift, in your keeping, and bade you bear it bravely in your country's 
cause, it was a sacred trust; nobly have you fulfilled that trust. 

Had I marched beneath the folds of that flag, or been old enough to 
have followed it with the "Ninety-fifth," with what success could I touch 
the mystic chords of memory, that from Camp Franklin stretched far away 
across the old Virginia battlefields and camping grounds, in rifle pits, 
or dreary muddy marches. 

But no, I can but echo what others have said of how at West Point you 
shed our first blood on the sacrificial altar. Of the camp on the Chicka- 
hominy ; of that cruel affair of Gaines' Mill where death robbed you of 
Gosline, Hubbs, Donahue, and one hundred and sixty brave boys killed 
and wounded. 

Time does not permit me to call to your minds the many scenes that 
occurred in the Peninsular campaign and the memorable change of base, 
and how that bright handsome zouave uniform had changed — now soiled, 
ragged and torn, and how those bright fresh boyish faces had changed to 
hard, fierce, determined men; how eyes that had looked with love on that 
dear old flag closed in the long sleep, or, how familiar voices of messmates 
and comrades were hushed in the long silence of death. 

Do your remember one beautiful Sabbath, on the 14th of September, 1862. 
Do you recall the battle of Crampton's Pass, and how victory inspired you, 
after many disappointments ; some are here no doubt that charged up that 
steep South Mountain and shared in the glories of that victory. 

At Antietam, your courage and fighting qualities were next tested, and 
you were true to the test. Fredericksburg follows, and the year closes 
with dark clouds hanging over the Union cause. 

Salem Heights ! the name is enough to recall to you painful memories 
of the fierce desperate struggle, and sad and mournful must have been that 
night of picket on the field of battle; here brave Town, Hall, Dunton and 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 517 

more than two hundred brave boys of the Ninety-fifth went down, and 
few were left of the handsome Gosline Zouaves that had been the pride 
of SQ many hopeful hearts. 

But we must hasten on. Lee had invaded Pennsylvania. The Army of 
the Potomac was following. The Sixth Corps at Westminister had received 
its orders to hasten, and it was from there to Gettysburg that it made 
the memorable march of thirty-nine miles in nine hours. 

Gettysburg I great writers have described thy scenes ; on thy loyal ground 
disloyalty received her death wound. 

It would be absurd for me to attempt to describe this battle ; we are on 
the map; it is spread before you, we can study it. ♦ 

You know you were held here as a reserve; you know of the march to 
get here through that hot, burning July sun. The Ninety-fifth was called 
upoi^ for one life here. 

Pettit received his death here from a sharpshooter concealed at Devil's 
Den and six were wounded. 

While I am speaking of the service, let me mention those two hundred 
and forty-five of the original members of the Ninety-fifth who re-enlisted 
for a second time, setting a noble example at a time when the terrible 
death struggle was drawing near, with a full knowledge that what they 
had gone through with, the hardships and sufferings, the battle with all 
its dangers was not the worst that could come ; fiercer and more bitter 
the war would rage before Richmond would fall, fight after fight, blow 
after blow, not a war of manoeuvers, but a war of destruction was to 
wage. Of what noble patriotism; never on the annals of war was recorded 
a higher, a nobler consecration than that which was made by the veteran 
volunteer soldier of the United States. 

It is impossible for me to describe the terrible hells of the Wilderness, 
of the deluge of forty days of fire and death that only ended at Cold 
Harbor . 

You, who have gone through it all, do you not often look back with wonder 
and ask yourselves how you escaped the death-wound. 

Comrades as brave, comrades cared for as well as you; comrades the 
subject of prayers as you were, fell to rise no more. 

We need not go to Marathon, or dig up the old heroic Greeks for ex- 
amples of bravery. You men of the Ninety-fifth, you fought as well, you 
shed your blood and held your own on fields as fiercely contested as they. 
Who. will dare deny this, that knows of the Wilderness campaign, where 
brave Carroll fell? Who that was with you on the 6th of May, 1864, will 
deny it? 

And do you remember the 9th day of May, when General John Sedg- 
wick, commander of the Sixth Corps, fell? 

On the 10th of May you were in the charge at the ridges of Spotsyl- 
vania, led by Upton, and proud you may well be of this gradual approach 
to victory. 

The 12th of May was the Bloody Angle, and another evidence of the 
courage and fighting qualities of the Ninety-fifth was given when you 
charged the crest of the "angle" and saved the day. 

Gait House, North and South Anna rivers, and we hasten on with 
34 



518 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

Sheridan's troopers. God bless Phil Sheridan! May he win in this battle 
with death and remain long with us the beloved of the American people! 
And then the rifle pits in front of Petersburg. Horrors as great as in 
any war were here encountered. Then, with Sheridan down the valley, 
Winchester, when your division commander, Russell, was killed. Fisher's 
Hill, New Market, Cedar Creek, and when the Sixth Corps broke the lines 
of Petersburg and victory crowned our standards, it was Corporal Fox 
of the "Ninety-fifth" who captured the flag of the Confederate custom 
house. 

At Sailor's Creek the last blood of the Ninety-fifth was poured on the 
altar, and Apponiattox and Richmond was ours. 

The cry that had echoed from your heart when you were on the penin- 
sula of "On to Richmond," had at last been accomplished. Your noble 
dead lay on many fields of battle. The Sixth Corps' work is done. .The 
more we examine the career of the Sixth Corps, more grand appear its 
achievements ; its prowess of war is a part of history and the names of 
the gallant dead are on honor's sacred scroll, and memory held dear by 
the surviving soldiers, Sedgwick, Russell, Gosline, Town, Hall, CairoU, 
Harper, Topham and so many others that time does not permit me to 
give a list of the gallant men who gave all they had to their country; 
they are remembered by some one; memory dear to some one. 

And what matters it, when men have given of their utmost in intellect, 
in strength and courage, and of their "blood the last drop, whether they fell 
with the star of the general, the eagle of the colonel, the stripe or chevron 
or in the simple jacket of the private. Wherever on fame's eternal camp- 
ing ground their silent tents are spread, at West Point, Salem Church, 
Wilderness or in some stately city of the dead, or in that beautiful spot 
at West Laurel Hill where you have selected a last camping ground for 
the "Ninety-fifth," the earth that bears them dead bears not alive more 
true or noble men. 

This may seem fulsome praise ; it is not. If we do not commend patriotism 
to whom shall we turn in the hour of danger which may come to those 
who succeed us here as it did to you. The example of patriotism teaches 
the young to be patriots. The sight of such memorials as this will teach 
to those who view it, and the heroic spirit will come in the hour of trial 
and emergency and fill the young patriot's breast as it did yours. And 
may this memorial stand when we in turn are gone, to teach this lesson 
of duty nobly done, at the expense of itself. 

Under the invitable waste of time, this as well as all these monuments 
hereabout erected to mark this place of glory, may, must, crumble and 
fall. 

Long may this structure stand — undisturbed by man or the elements. 
May centuries outnumbering those that look down upon the pyramids roll 
on and find this memorial preserved. May it endure in the years to come 
that those who see it will be inspired to know that honor is more than 
wealth, and right is more than peace, and heroic deeds more than life. 

You, survivors of Gosline's, you of the Ninety -fifth Pennsylvania Volun- 
teers, you that followed this flag when it was bright and new, as soldiers 
of the Union in its mortal struggle, your work is almost done. You may 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 519 

gather together again, you may meet and fold the dear old flag around the 
form of some comrade, but no new recruits come to strengthen your 
broken ranks; The steady resistless artillery of time hurls its deadly mis- 
siles upon you. You may face it as bravely as you faced the foe at 
Salem Heights and Bloody Angle. But one by one your numbers weaken. 

As we stand here together, as we remember how nobly and bravely life's 
work was done, let us imagine around and about us are the spirits of the 
brave comrades dead and gone, those who stood with you when you took 
your solemn oath, and as we leave to them their pure and noble fame, as 
we leave this spot so sacred, so memorable, may we go forth exalted 
by this communion, and may we take up life's daily duties and responsi- 
bilities manfully. Be as brave and true as in the past; keep to the right 
as you did at the "angle," and may the path down the shady side of life 
of all the old soldiers of the Ninety-fifth be full of pleasures. 

May the glory of the Sixth Corps never grow dim and may God preserve 
the cause you helped to gain. 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

96TH REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

June 21, 1888 
ADDRESS OF COLONEL HENRY ROYER 

COMRADES of the Ninety-sixth Pennsylvania Volunteers: — We are met 
again, not in the panoply of war, but as peaceful citizens of the re- 
public. We are here to unveil the beautiful stone which marks the 
spot where our regiment fought twenty-five years ago. 

The monument, the artistic morit of which reflects great credit upon 
the young artist who designed it, bears upon its face the history of our 
organization. The surmounting figure indicates its defensive attitude 
throughout the engagement. The inscriptions designate the county and 
state from whence it came, and the position it held, from first to last, 
in the Army of the Potomac. It is a noteworthy fact in the history of 
the Ninety-sixth, that it was one of the very few regiments whose enlist- 
ment was authorized by an order direct from the War Department. It 
was therefore organized and mustered into the service at its home as the 
monument declares. 

An account of the three long years of service, the thrilling details of 
life in the camp, on the march and in the field, must be the task of the 
regimental historian. This day's event, however, would be incomplete 
without a brief sketch of the salient features of that service. 

'Organizecl at Pottsville from Seiitenihei' 9 to October 30, ISGl. to serve three years. The 
original meinliers (except veterans) were mustered out October. 21, 1S64, by reason of 
expiration of term of service and the veterans and recruits transferred to the Kth 
Penna. 



520 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

Your first camp, which for two months had nestled amidst the loyal 
hills of Schuylkill county, was broken up in November, 1861, when you 
departed from your mountain home for the more stirring scenes of war. 
On your arrival at Washington, you were at once in the heart of a great 
army. To men fresh from the employments of peace, strange, almost 
weird, seemed the din and tumult. Having been speedily assigned to the 
brigade of General Slocum, of General Franklin's Division, your march 
from the temporary quarters near Bladensburg to Washington, down Penn- 
yslvania avenue, across the Long Bridge, through and beyond Alexandria 
to Fairfax Seminary in Virginia, brought you to the then immediate 
front. In camps of instruction you here passed the few remaining weeks 
of winter, in full view of the great dome of the national capitol in your 
rear, and of the enemy's flag at Munson's Hill, in your front. The daily 
routine of drill and picket duty, familiarized you with danger, and inured 
you to the hardships of your many subsequent campaigns. You then 
thought it war, but it was only the preparation for war. 

Under the famous "Order No. 1" you advanced in the early spring 
with the array toward Centerville, when, the enemy having fallen back, 
you returned to your camp. Again, while the army, under General Mc- 
Clellan, was being transferred to the Peninsula, you finally marched in the 
corps of General McDowell to Warren ton, whence, being recalled, and 
transported down Chesapeake bay, you arrived at Yorktown at the mo- 
ment of its evacuation. Passing up York river, upon the flank of the re- 
treating enemy, at West Point, on May 6, you received your baptism of 
fire. It was then a battle. In history it is recorded as a slight skirmish. 
And now, in and about the swamps of Chickahominy, began that long 
continued and dreadful suffering and slaughter which ended in the memor- 
able "Seven days before Richmond." Marching by night and fighting 
by day, your baptism was here confirmed in blood; eighty-eight of your 
comrades having been placed hors de combat in the single battle of Gaines' 
Hill alone. Henceforth the Army of the Potomac ranked with the veteran 
armies of the earth. 

The scene then shifted to Northern Virginia. In covering the withdrawal 
of the army marched from Harrison's Landing, the Sixth Corps marched 
down the Peninsula to Newport News, was then conveyed to Alexandria 
and by a rapid march, reached the army of General Pope in time to par- 
ticipate in its retreat. In that retreat, you well remember the stormy 
midnight march, in which, with bayonets fixed, you passed the battlefield 
of Chantilly, where had just fallen so many of your brave Schuylkill county 
comrades of the Forty-eighth and Fiftieth Pennsylvania Volunteers. Then 
followed imder General McClellan the short but brilliant campaign into 
Maryland, and the decisive battles of South Mountain and Antietam. And 
here we pause long enough to gather around and drop a tear upon the graves 
of our many — many comrades who went to sleep under tbe mouotain 
shadows. 

Southward again, under General Burnside, in December of the same 
year, you advance to the disaster of Fredericksburg; and, at last, rest in 
winter quarters on the plain near that ill-fated spot; the monotony of 



Pennsylvania at Oettyshurg. 521 

the second winter camp being broken only by the famous, but unsuccessful 
"march in the mud," under the same general. 

As life once more quickened the pulse of spring, the bugle sounded the 
march under the dashing General Hooker. Then came the brilliantly con- 
ceived movement to Chancellorsville, in which, across the Rappahannock, 
at Salem Church, your regiment was again decimated, and barely es- 
caped destruction. And now, under General Meade, you follow the north- 
ward march of the army, through Maryland to this — the soil of your native 
State. The battle of Gettysburg had already begun. Thirty-six miles 
away, at Manchester, you heard your comrades' cry for help just before 
the dawn of July 2. Before 4 o'clock in the afternoon of that same day, 
your impregnable ranks confronted the victorious and advancing foe, upon 
the very ground where we are now assembled. Here, wheeling into line, 
your columns imfalteringly held this position to the end. It has been 
affirmed by men skilled in military science, that the struggle of July 2, 
at this part of the field, was the turning-point of the battle. By one 
of the strange freaks of war, the Sixth Corps, with inconsiderable loss 
and by her opportune arrival alone, decided the fortune of that day. 

It has seemed that, with that gigantic combat, courage and fortitude 
had reached its limit; that human endurance had been exhausted. Nay! 
the tide of war was only to roll back to its accustomed channels. Ere the 
thunder of artillery had ceased to reverberate along these valleys you were 
again on the march. Your advance, on July 6, brought you into a sharp 
engagement at Fairfield, ten miles away. On southward went the comba- 
tants, until the Potomac was passed. Then began, under the skillful Gen- 
eral Meade, a succession of brilliant strategic movements, covering the 
arena between Centerville and Mine Run. There were innumerable marches, 
recconnaissances, skirmishes and a brilliant victory at Rappahannock Sta- 
tion, in all of which you participated, and, at their close, withdrew to 
your last winter camp, at Culpeper, on the Rapidan. 

The succeeding months of repose were but the calm that precedes the 
bursting storm. By common consent, the ensuing campaign, under the 
great commander, for its pertinacity and carnage, is unparalleled in the 
annals of warfare. For one long month the surge of battle rolled between 
the Rapidan and the Chickahominy, at a cost of thirty thousand men to 
the Army of the Union. The mind is appalled, and language powerless to 
describe. To say that you were there, in your accustomed place, were 
enough, and yet not enough for the fulness of the truth. 

On the 10th of May, the Ninety-sixth was one of twelve selected regi- 
ments, which, in three lines, under the command of the ardent General 
Emory Upton, made for that day, the final desperate and succes-sful charge 
at Spotsylvania. Such a charge, under such a leader, was resistless. In 
the front center of that column you swept over the enemy's works to 
victory, but with the' frightful sacrifice of one-half of all who were in the 
action. As if your record had not already been written in blood, your piti- 
ful remnant again closes up its ranks at Cold Harbor ; and there, in sight 
of the old l^^ttlefields of 1862, in the early days of June, you place the last 
offering on your country's altar in the death of your adjutant. 

From Petersburg you return, in July to the defense of Washington. 



522 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

Then you go down the valley with General Sheridan, to the battle of Win- 
chester ; in which you were denied participation by your commanding gen- 
eral, who declared that to permit further sacrifice from the Ninety-sixth 
on the last day of its service, would be murder. 

This brief summary contains only a bare outline of your services. In the 
interest of history, your achievements can be best epitomized by the simpl*; 
story of your muster rolls. They bear, in all, the names of eleven hundred 
and forty-nine men, including musicians and teamsters; whUe the loss from 
disease and battle reaches the enormous aggregate of four hundred and 
fifty-seven . 

The events we have narrated belong to the past. Their record will 
challenge the attention and command the admiration of mankind. But, 
to you alone, is it permitted to vividly realize them. You were at the fore- 
front when your comrade fell upon the rampart. You alone saw the 
ghastly wound where the soul went out. To you it. is a vivid memory, and 
even to you a memory only. 

But, comrades, we come not into the pi'esence of these patriot dead to 
vaimt our own deeds. We are met rather to perform a sacred duty, to 
the end that this imperishable memorial may be completed. In the dis- 
charge of that duty, you place your chaplet upon the altar in the name of 
the Ninety-sixth Pennsylvania Volunteers, but in honor of the great county 
from whence you came, and in memory of the patriotism and heroic valor 
of the whole army. Your regiment was distinctively a Schuylkill county 
organization. It had been organized and mustered into the service at 
home. And yet, it represented less than one-tenth of the brave men 
who have shed lustre upon her name. From within her borders, exclusively 
also, came the Forty-eighth Pennsylvania Volunteers, that splendid regi- 
ment, which, to devotion and fortitude, added the matchless skill and cun- 
ning that fashioned the famous mine at Petersburg. And, besides these, 
came parts also of many other Pennsylvania regiments ; notably the Fif- 
tieth, Fifty-fifth, One hundred and twenty-seventh. One hundred and 
twenty-ninth and One hundred and fifty-first infantry; and the Third, 
Seventh and Seventeenth cavalry. And by hosts of others, singly and in 
groups, was she represented in the organizations of every State from Maine 
to California. And, be it not forgotten, that when the danger signal 
sounded in the darkness of the night, she furnished two of the five com- 
panies, which, emerging from the gloom, first appeared upon the banks of 
the Potomac. Her first defenders formed the vanguard of the Army of 
the Union ; her more than thirteen thousand citizen soldiers helped to 
augment its columns ; her loyal sons have crimsoned with their blood 
a hundred battlefields. Her exalted patriotism has swelled the ranks of 
the nameless dead; and, oh! most fitting privilege, here to, upon the 
ground she helped to consecrate, her enduring tablet becomes a part of this 
inspiring altar of patriotism. 

The battle of Gettysburg, although only one of the thousand sanguinary 
battles that were fought upon the strategic line of operations, was the 
turning-point of the war. For this reason, and because of itj|hnagnitude, 
it has been chosen to represent them all. Here, upon this part of the 
great line, is to be erected a visible diagram, so to speak, of the positions 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 523 

and movements of the forces. All were not upon this identical field; and 
yet, from this sftot, the pilgrim, come from whence he may, will see the 
embattled hosts and hear their shouts away to the far Mississippi and the 
gulf. The Forty-eighth was not here, but he will distinctly hear the roll 
of her musketry at Antietam Bridge and Fredericksburg. Nor was the 
Fiftieth here, yet will he hear her battle-cry at Bull Run and Chantilly, 
and see her ranks of steel closing around the heights of Vicksburg. He 
will see them all and hear them all; and, having learned the lesson of 
their sacrifice, will go hence with renewed inspiration to battle for the 
right. 

We were actors in this drama, and now, my friends, have we, ourselves, 
become spectators. The smoke of the conflict has lifted. The feelings 
and passions which were intensified by it have passed away. A clearer 
vision now reveals it as a link in the chain of ©Vents connecting the past 
and future. 

It was reserved for this continent to develop in the men who fought 
here the full stature of manhood. The combatants were men of the same 
race. They were united by the ties of a common brotherhood. They were 
impelled by the same motives, and guided by the same destiny. They 
were both the sons of the sires of 76. They were alike the descendants 
of the liberty -loving men who founded this great empire. And more, they 
belong to the same race of men who, in other lands, have for ages fought 
the battles of the people ; the kinship to whom we trace in the very names 
of those who, upon either side, whether right or wrong, here fought for 
a principle. They were all men of exalted character — enlightened, vigi- 
lant, brave and noble men. They were men who had been reared in the 
fear of God, and in lote for their fellowmen ; men with whom the per- 
formance of duty is a privilege ; men who dare to defend the right, as they 
know it; the kind of men that heroes and martyrs are made of. The up- 
rising of the North, indeed the unanimity of both sections, was so phe- 
nomenal, that it could have been true of such men only. At the first overt 
act great armies, as if by magic, sprang to life. Political and other dis- 
tinctions were put aside. Men flocked to either standard, from every 
avenue of life, each vieing with the other in their zeal. Such men needed 
not the matron's injunction to be brave, for they loved their cause better 
than life itself. These were the men— thrice noble men. The struggle 
was in accord with their character. It was a battle of giants — grand in 
action — ^mighty in result. 

But whence came this demon of discord? Did not their fathers and 
ours together set up a home in the wilderness? Did they not share the pri- 
vations and dangers of the pioneer? Did they not, with one accord, here 
plant the standard of religious and political liberty, under which the down- 
trodden millions might find refuge from the persecutions of tyranny and 
caste? Did they not, as brothers, side by side, from Bunker Hill to 
Charleston, fight the battles of the Revolution? Did not these same fathers 
unite in the erection of a new nation "conceived in liberty and dedicated to 
the proposition that all men are created equal?" And, finally, did they 
not, with their intermingled blood, protect and defend that nation? Whence 
then this civil strife? Alas! they struck the yoke from off their own neck. 



524 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

but permitted it to remain on that of their bondmen. Whether from 
policy or necessity, they placed human slavery under the safeguard of 
law; and thus, as if in solemn mockery, planted an aristocracy within 
a republic. As right and wrong, so freedom and slavery cannot 
dwell together in harmony. The seed of dissension speedily took root. 
First men then sections became estranged. And here was presented the 
anomalous spectacle of good and great men in angry controversy about a 
principle which their fathers had declared to be a self-evident truth. A 
heritage, so rich in the antecedents of the sires, could not at once be lost 
to the sons. They clung to the Union, but the conflict was irrepressible. 
The breach widened. Men split hairs about the letter of the law, while 
they lost sight of its spirit. From antagonism came violent contention 
and turmoil. Demands — compromises — concessions^everything was in vain. 

The acrimony of debate gave way to the arbitrament of the sword. Then 
came the conflict, as the shock of a mighty storm. The lovers of liberty 
throughout the earth stood aghast. Their longing eyes had been turned 
toward this nation. They had witnessed its birth and dedication to 
liberty. They had watched with anxious solicitude its growing strength and 
greatness. Around it had clustered their tenderest sympathies; their fond- 
est hope of final deliverance. For, just as this battle was the turning 
point of war, so was the conflict itself the culmination of a great struggle 
which had been going on for centuries. Need we wonder that men said 
"this is God's war?" Ought we not rather wonder that men indulged in 
doubt or despair? In that tribunal the God of battles is the arbiter, and 
the verdict cannot but be in accord with divine justice. Thanks be to 
God! the arbitrament is final. The nation has received "a new birth of 
freedom ! and government by the people, of the people and for the people 
shall not perish from the earth." The ordeal is at an end. The Union has 
been preserved. The nation has arisen purified — redeemed. Joy and 
thanksgiving fill the hearts of men. 

From all former civil wars had uniformly proceeded the downfall of the 
republic. From this, the greatest of all, came the utter destruction of the 
wrong which produced it. With the collapse of the rebellion not only 
was slavery wiped out, but with it, the whole social fabric which sprang 
from it. The South, in upholding that wrong, had submitted its existence 
to the decision of the sword, and by the sword it died. The issue long 
trembled in the balance, but, when the verdict came, it was final. 

The war for the restoration of the Union had been waged "with malice 
toward none — with charity for all." The same spirit continued in the 
return to peace. Upon the one side no unnecessary conditions were im- 
posed ; nor was there undue resentment and prolonged animosity on the 
other. There appeared to be an instinctive recognition of the fact, that 
the sins of the fathers had been expiated and purged from the body 
politic. The transition from war to peace was, therefore, instant — so quick 
that men marvelled at it. It was, indeed, a spectacle of unexampled hero- 
ism. Aye, more! it was a sublime tribute to the blessed Christian civiliza- 
tion of this nineteenth century. Here had armed hosts been engaged in 
a death struggle. For four weary years war, with its passions, had 
scourged the land. Homes had been broken up, and families destroyed. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 525 

And yet, barely had the deadly strife ended, ere the result was acquiesced 
in by all. With manly dignity the combatants parted. There was no hu- 
miliation — no exultation. Quietly and sadly they turned their faces home- 
ward. A million mailed warriors, inured to scenes of blood, at once re- 
sumed the pursuits of peaceful industry. Had not this magnanimity suc- 
ceeded the triumph of arms, the victory would have been barren. Could 
the martyr-president have foreseen that, within one generation, both victor 
and vanquished would unite in fraternal gatherings upon this very field, 
his mighty sou^ would have throbbed with joy. 

A score and three years have passed since peace was ushered in. The 
fruitage of that peace has already been abundant. In the short interval 
the growth in wealth and population has been marvellous. A quickened 
life in the useful arts has multiplied comforts throughout the homes of the 
land. The development of the higher arts, also, though not so obvious, 
is readily discerned by the careful observer. The new birth of the republic 
has everywhere regenerated the elements of strength and greatness. It 
has been said that, as man is constituted, national greatness can come 
only through war ; that just as the atonement was necessary for the re- 
demption of the race, so is the shedding of human blood requisite for the 
making of a great history for a people ; that individual sacrifice begets 
unity of feeling and patriotic ardor, which stimulate acts of heroism ; that 
the achievements of the citizen form the materials for a more original and 
higher national art and literature. If this be so, then, surely, in the 
stupendous sacrifices of the American people will this western republic 
attain a most glorious future. Those sacrifices, be it remembered, were 
made for a divine principle — not in wars of aggression and conquest, but 
for the welfare of humanity. If lofty motives and sublime deeds are the 
proper incentives, American genius will produce, in art, a revelation and 
an epic that will be classic forever. 

But after nil, my fellow citizens, these are but the more incidents of 
progress. We are but working out, imder divine guidance, the mystery 
of humanity. At each successive step we ascend to a higher plane, and 
with us are elevated all the people. Our republic is, even now, a pillar 
of fire to the millions of the earth, and a constant and dangerous menace 
to "sovereigns by the grace of God." If we see aright, however, true and 
enduring greatness will be attained only when we shall have established 
a living faith in the people's capacity for self-government. Our fellow- 
citizens of other climes (for freedom-loving men are fellow-citizens every- 
where, demand of us, that by our wise example, we may not impair that 
faith. We owe it to them, we owe to ourselves that, with knowledge to 
see the right, we shall have moral courage to enforce it. 

If the social problem is to be wrought out in a republic, there must be 
developed the very highest standard of education and moral training. Wise 
laws and pure administration depend upon the wisdom and integrity of the 
people. 

They, therefore, who deprecate the unlimited diffusion of knowledge, re- 
veal a lack of faith in the people. They would remand to the few the 
power to make laws for the many. In the bright light of this era, such 



526 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

men are out of place, if not in the world, at least in a republic. They 
must either fall into the line of march, or they will surely be lost in the 
wilderness. That "the voice of the people is the voice of God," may not 
as yet have been fully verified, but this much has been irrevocably learned, 
the rights of the people are secure only in the keeping of wise and virtuous 
freemen . In the frailty of humanity errors and wrongs wiU occur ; but 
in the practice of virtue will be cultivated the self-respect of the citizen. 
He will not become a cringing sycophant to those in authority, because 
the government is of his own creation. He cannot be a mendicant, asking 
alms from the public purse, for the reason that he himself holds the strings 
of that purse. The king can do no wrong. From the crown descend all 
rights to an abject vassal. The subject slave is taught to kneel at the 
foot of power and crave its support, but a republic arises by, and exists 
in, the sacrifices of the people: is supported by the toil of the people; its 
majesty lies in the people. 

In this nation has been hung the lamp of liberty to illuminate the whole 
world. The security of the nation itself is in your hands. Outward foes 
will not willingly assail us. While. the republic is the home of peace, 
■ watchful of her own rights and considerate of the rights of others, yet 
have men seen that she wages war with terrible earnestness. The un- 
equaled bearing and dreadful power of her citizen soldierly have taught 
a salutary lesson, which, in itself, is a sufficient guarantee against aggres- 
sion. The army of the people, in a defensive war (and a republic ought 
to engage in no othei-) is absolutely invincible. We are thus happily re- 
lieved from the maintenance of large standing armies and powerful navies. 
These are always elements of weakness ; a menace to peace, an excessive 
burden upon industry, and a source of danger to liberty. Our great present 
and greater future lie not in warlike pageantry and vain ostentation, but 
rather in the "more renowned victories of peace." By these shall this 
domain be the abode of contentment and happiness. Dangers from what- 
ever source, must be averted. This goodly heritage is in your keeping. 
By you it must be handed down, unimpaired to the future. To that end, 
your duty cannot cease, else all these sacrifices were in vain. Zealous in 
war, you must, in common with your other fellow-citizens, display the same 
devotion in the enforcement of obedience to the laws ; in the restraint 
of license and disorder ; in the abatement of party rancor ; and in the pro- 
motion of every good and wise measure conducive to the general welfare. 
Then, with harmony and concord, will continue the onward march of the 
people . 

And now! my comrades! this may be our last reunion. We are exceed- 
ingly fortunate both in the event and place of occurrence. When last 
you saw this ground, it was the "vale of death." Then the fury and pas- 
sion of war rent the earth, and the sulphurous fumes of battle stifled the 
air. Now these fields blossom in quiet happiness, and the air is vocal with 
music of birds. As the lights are heightened by shadows, as the sunshine 
glows more brightly after the broken storm, so do you, to-day, by the con- 
trast, realize more clearly the benign blessing of peace. Some of you bring 
ugly scars, and bodies weary with wounds, but even to such this blessed 
scene is an ample recompense. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 527 

To us, the Ninety-sixth Regiment is something more than a name — 
far more than an integral part of the army. It is a brotherhood of com- 
rades, both living and dead, linked together with hooks of steel. It is a 
talisman, whose power over the heart time can never impair. It means 
for lis not only camp life, midnight picket watches, marches, battles, cam- 
paigns, toils, dangers and death ; but tender sympathies, warm affections, 
and noble loves, which were born in the hour of danger, and which live 
on even after death. I know you are even now thinking of Lew, and 
John, and Bill, and Tom, and Charley, those noble fellows, whose guileless 
hearts were as an open book to us, and into whose fearless eyes you so often 
looked, when 

The noise of battle hurtled In the air. 

We learned to know them so well. They were kUled by our side. The 
last look of the eye and the quick hand pressure, beyond the power of 
speech, conveyed their parting message to home and us. We buried them 
as best we could — rudely, but tenderly. We sang no requiem, save that in 
the silence of the heart. We followed no ritual, for, in that awful so- 
lemuity, none was permitted— none required. They are dead; and yet, so 
vividly, even now, do we see them, we fain would believe their good spirits 
are hovering about us. With joy, and the sorrow close akin, dear, dear, 
departed comrades! we unveil this monument to your glory. 

The camp fire begins to smolder in the embers. One by one the lights 
are going out. The Ninety-sixth will soon, very soon, be at rest. 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

98TH REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

September 11, 1889 
ADDRESS OF CAPTAIN JACOB A. SCHMIDE 

COMRADES and friends :— Through the kind favor of Providence and 
the patriotic liberality of the government of our noble old Keystone 
State we are permitted to be assembled here to-day, on this historic 
field, to dedicate this monument as a memorial to the action of the Ninety- 
eighth Regiment Pennsylvania Infantry in the great battle fought on these 
fields in July, 1863, for the preservation of our country, for the continua- 
tion of our government, for the defense of our homes and our firesides, 
for the defense, especially as Pennsylvanians of all and everything near 
and dear to us, against the invading hosts of the enemy, who, fresh from 
one victory, advanced boldly upon our own State capital, threatening our 
own towns, our own cities, our very existence. 



♦Organized at Philaiiflphi.i fiom August S3 to November 6, ISCl, to serve throe years. 
On the expiration of its term of service the original memliers (except veterans) were 
mustered out and the organization composed of veterans and recruits retained in service 
until June 29, 1865, when it was mustered out. 



528 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

On behalf of the survivors of the Ninety-eighth Regiment Pennsylvania 
Infantry it behooves me now, I believe, in connection with this occasion, 
to state to you, that this monument is erected here by the authority of 
our State government, to mark a position held by the regiment during the 
battle, and to commemorate the regiment's action in the great battle fought 
on these fields during those ever-memorable days of July, 1863. 

My friends, we are glad to be enabled to inform you here, that this 
monument does indicate a position, as the inscription thereon truthfully 
states. The regiment held this position from about dusk of the even- 
ning of July 2, to the end of the battle. Actually it was in line along 
the road in front, the right wing somewhat refused to face the woods, but 
to conform to the wishes of the Commissioners appointed by the Governor 
to superintend the erection of these monuments, and the various good and 
sufficient reasons advanced by them therefor, our committee willingly ac- 
cepted this location, although it is somewhat in rear of the line which 
the regiment actually occupied. 

We regret that we cannot so heartily approve of the inscriptions thereon 
alluding to the regiment's action in this memorable battle, or, rather, 
we must regret the omission of any statement alluding to the action of 
the regiment on another part of the field, although in close vicinity. 

The inscriptions are as decided for us by the State Commissioners, and 
state truthfully, that the regiment led the Sixth Corps on its march from 
Manchester, Marjland, to the battlefield and held this line from evening 
of July 2 to the end of the battle, but make no allusion to what else it did. 

Our lamented General Sedgwick, in his report on this battle, states that 
he arrived, in fact reported his corps present, at Rock creek at 2 o'clock 
p. m., and the Ninety-eighth was the leading regiment of it. 

Well, did we stay at Rock creek, a full mile or more in the rear? 

Was the leading regiment of the corps left at Rock creek to rest itself, 
while others following, yes, while the other following regiments of our 
own brigade were hurried forward as fast possible and led into action, 
into the fight on this identical ground? 

No, my friends, the Ninety-eighth was not the kind of a regiment to 
be left in the rear under anything like such circumstances as took place 
here on that afternoon. 

Although the Commissioners did not allow us a mention in the inscrip- 
tion of the action of the regiment between the time of its arrival at Rock 
creek and the time, as stated, when it was placed in position on this line, 
we were not lying idle at Rock creek, or anywhere else, listening to the 
battle from afar, yes, to the roar of battle being fought that afternoon 
on these identical fields, in this immediate vicinity, those very hours, my 
fi'iends, were, and are to-day, and will continue to be, as long as we live, 
the hours most memorable to us the survivors of the Ninety-eighth in 
regard to our action in the battle of Gettysburg. The hours between 4 
o'clock and sundown of that afternoon of July 2, 1863, were full of trying 
moments on this part of the field, and the Ninety-eighth got here in good 
time and did its duty, yes fully did its duty, and perhaps some of the 
work of others, and as the State Commissioners request, that in the exer- 
cises in connection with the dedication of these monuments the survivors in- 



Pennsylvania at Oettysturg. 529 

elude a true, and as near as possible complete statement of the actions of 
their respective regiments in this battle, we cheerfully comply with that 
request, to the best of our ability ; although in the main part it will only 
be a reiteration of a statement of our action as a regiment, in the battle 
these monuments are to commemorate as we have some time ago trans- 
mitted to them. 

Yes, transmitted to them for the very purpose of having- the truth of 
our action recognized by suitable mention thereof in the inscription on 
this monument, and made over the solemn affidavit of a large number of 
our comrades who participated with us in this eventful battle. Over the 
solemn affidavit of comrades who lost limbs, who became crippled for life 
in that action of the regiment, a solemn statement made under oath and 
transmitted to them, setting forth our action, especially for the purpose 
of inducing he Commissioners to include a mention thereof in the in- 
scriptions, and without a mention of which we can never look upon or 
consider this monument as giving to posterity a truthful history of the 
part the Ninety-eighth Regiment Pennsylvania Infantry took in the battle 
this monument is intended to commemorate. 

On the evening of July 1, 1863, the Ninety-eighth Regiment Pennsyl- 
vania Volunteers, four hundred strong, under command of Lieutenant- 
Colonel John B. Kohler and Major J. W. Beamish, was in bivouac near 
Manchester, Maryland, thirty-eight miles from here, with the rest, of the 
Sixth Army Corps, and shortly after dark was ordered on the march 
towards Gettysburg, where heavy fighting had already been going on dcring 
the day ; the regiment was fortunate enough to have the leading position 
of the corps assigned to it for that march, a position which, in a column 
on a march, and especially on a march as that one was, is very advanta- 
geous, as it enabled us to reach the battlefield hei-e in very good order and 
form, after marching all night and day without intermission, until we ar- 
rived at Rock creek, at a point about a mile south of where the Baltimore 
pike crosses said stream, and may fairly be included in the area of this 
battlefield. 

We arrived there shortly after .2 o'clock and were halted and allowed 
to rest for probably fully an hour, when we were advanced, with .our 
brigade, to the bridge on the Baltimore pike over Rock creek, being placed 
in line on the south bank, on the left of the pike, facing the stream. 
Hardly had the brigade got in line in that position when we were again 
ordered forward, and crossed the creek partly by way of the bridge and 
partly by fording the stream, doing so under our lamented General Sedg- 
wick's personal supervision. We were at once urged forward as fast as 
possible and soon lost sight of and became detached from our brigade, being 
directed by a staff officer who accompanied us towards the left, we making 
a good part of the distance on the double-quick, and were brought onto 
Little Round Top, and by the direction of a staff officer formed in line of 
battle ; being right in front necessitated our forming on the right by files 
into line. 

Our right resting at a point about four hundred feet south of the road 
that crosses Round Top ridge, our left extending well up to what may be 
called the rockier part of the western slope of the hill, facing the wheat- 



530 Pennsylvania at Qettysburg. 

field, with the intervening ridge and marsh directly in line of our front. 
This line of our regiment was formed immediately in rear of a line of 
others of our troops, whom we soon found were some of the Pennsylvania 
Reserves, and whose left was somewhat overlapped by our formation. 
Our other troops appeared at that time as being apparently driven from 
or leaving the field in our front pretty well broken up and the enemy in 
what seemed to us to be also rather disorganized parties, following closely 
after them, however, placing a couple of guns that our men were trying 
to save, in apparent jeopardy of being captured, from I may say almost 
under our eyes. Therefore, before the regiment was hardly formed in 
line we were ordered to fix bayonets followed immediately by the com- 
mand "forward Ninety-eighth, charge," and forward we did go, advancing 
through the line of troops mentioned as lying directly in front of us while 
we formed, they apparently willingly opening their ranks to let us through; 
we charged through the marsh of Plum run, advancing to the foot of the 
ridge on the west side of the swamp ; whatever there was in our immediate 
sight of the enemy, in our direct front, retreating before us with little 
firing ; we however received a livelier fire from the left (Devil's Den) while 
crossing the swamp, which, together with the difficulty of crossing through 
the soft slough, had the effect to break our line up somewhat, so that 
the halt at the foot of the. ridge, though for a few moments only, allowed 
those who became delayed (stuck in the mire) in crossing, to catch up. 

The troops through whom we had passed > as before mentioned, also 
started to advance while we lay at the foot of the ridge, and on their 
left adjoining our right they also halted a few moments when the whole 
extended line again advanced, we up the ridge to and over the stone wall 
skirting the wheattield, our left well into the woods on the left, driving back 
some and making prisoners of a number of what looked to us like disor- 
ganized straggling parties of the enemy, with little extra effort on our 
part. We were, however, soon recalled to the stone wall on the ridge 
and held that position until near dusk, when we were ordered to the right 
and rejoined our brigade taking position on the right of it, which brought 
us on this line, having sustained in the charge and the other movements 
just described the comparatively light loss of only one man killed and ten 
wounded. And in this line and position we were kept to the end of the 
battle without actually any further losses or becoming further engaged. 



ADDRESS OF SERGEANT F. J. LOEBLE 

R. President and comrades of the Ninety-eighth Pennsylvania Regi- 
mental Association, ladies, gentlemen and friends:— Assembled 
here to-day, taking the allotted and average time of the life of 
mankind to be thirty-three years, a generation of the human family has 
almost passed away since first the cause made its appearance, which has 
led thousands' to assemble to-day, on this glorious and renowned field of 



M 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 531 

Gettysburg. It would take entirely too much of your valuable time, 
and would, I am afraid, severely tax your powers of endurance, were I 
to undertake to fully discuss the cause, the political intrigues and machina- 
tions of the leading politicans and statesmen, which eventually led to the 
secession of the Southern States from the Union. 

More eligible tongues and abler pens have discussed those questions 
time and again, and I am confident, that the greater majority of those 
assembled here to-day, are quite familiar with that subject, and it will, 
therefore, be sufficient for me to say that after a most exciting political 
campaign for the election of a President of these United States, in the 
rail of 1860, in which that noble and never-to-be-forgotten man and martyr, 
Abraham Lincoln, was chosen as the executive ofiicer of this federation 
of states, the country was embroiled, and stood face-to-face with the most 
wicked, uncalled for and unscrupulous attempt of traitors and rebels, to 
overthrow the government and establish slavery on a firm and everlasting 
foundation. Although in his inaugural address, on the 4th of March, 1861, 
the President had promised not to interfere with slavery in the States 
where it then existed, and assurances were given by all the leading states- 
men of the then dominant party to the same effect, the political leaders 
of the South had so worked upon the minds of their constituents the idea 
of establishing a separate government, with slavery for its corner-stone 
that State after State recalled their senators and representatives from Con- 
gress and passed, acts of secession in their different legislatures. 

Could they have foreseen the unity a'nd devotion to the flag, as ex- 
hibited by the inhabitants of the Northern States when they were once 
fairly aroused, I feel warranted in sayiru;-, that they would have considered 
and deliberated considerably longer before striking the blow against the 
flag of our country, by firing on Fort Sumter in the harbor of Charleston, 
on the morning of April 12, 1861 ; but when the gods wish to destroy they 
first strike with blindness, and as the Almighty Providence and father of 
us all, had determined to strike the curse of slavery from this fair land 
of ours, he let them go on in their mad career and permitted them to still 
further blacken their treacherous souls in the blood of their brothers. 

The war of the rebellion was now fairly opened, a war which in its ac- 
cursed course of four years cost the country hundreds of thousands of lives, 
millions upon millions of money, breaking down the health of thousands 
of men, and filling the land with widows and orphans; at the same time, 
however, bringing forth to full development the noblest traits of human 
character, unbounded charity, heavenly love and unsurpassed devotion. On 
April 14, 1861, the stars and stripes, that beloved symbol of our country 
and human liberty, ceased to float over Fort Sumter, and the President 
issued his first call for 75,000 volunteers to serve for the period of three 
months. The shots on Fort Sumter roused the slumbering fire of patriot- 
ism in the hearts of the Nation ; stunned by this blow the country reeled 
like a man in his cups, but almost immediately recovered and exhibited 
such an intensity of feeling and readiness for sacrifices of all kind as as- 
tonished the people themselves and the world at large. Work of all kind 
seemed entirely suspended, the professional man suspended his calling, 
the artisan and mechanic stopped his machinery, the merchant laid aside 



532 Pennsylvania at Oettysburg. 

his ledger, the laborer his pick and shovel, the farmer stopped his team in 
the field, even some of the boys flung their books in the corner, all vieing 
with each other vs^hich one would first reach the recruiting station, to 
inscribe his name on the roll of his country's defenders. 

The quotas of the different States were filled almost as soon as the call 
had been issued, and you, jny comrades, well remember how eager you 
were to go forth, and to do and die, so that our nation might live. 

If I am allowed to do so, I would here relate to you as an illustration 
of the eagerness of the people to enlist, and of the surplus of men offer- 
ing their services to the government, a circumstance which happened to me 
personally. On offering my services, the recruiting ofiicer told me em- 
phatically, and I thought at the time, not very politely, that he could 
get by far more men than he wanted, and did not propose to enlist boys. 

It was at this time that our fellow town.sman, John F. Ballier, a tried 
soldier of the Mexican war, a man of sterling qualities (who has been pre- 
vented by sickness from being with us on this memorable day) considered 
it to be his duty toward the land of his adoption, to again unsheath his 
sword in defense of the flag under whose folds millions of people have 
found freedom fi-om tyranny and oppression. His services being accepted, 
he took the field in a very short time at the head of a regiment of volun- 
teers known as the Twenty-first Regiment Pennsylvania Infantry. The 
term of enlistment of this organization expired on July 29, the final dis- 
charge being August 8. The brave and loyal commander had, however, 
taken time by the forelock, and secured the issue of an order from the 
War Department, authorizing him to recruit a regiment of infantry for 
the term of three years or sooner shot, as the boys used to say, the sentence, 
however, reading or sooner discharged; this again shows to you that even 
at that time, no one had any idea of the gigantic proportions this unholy war 
was going to assume. 

Many of the discharged ofiicers and men of the now extinct Twenty-first 
Regiment rallied around their beloved commander, and at once com- 
menced active recruiting, so that by the 17th of August, the first com- 
pany was mustered into the service, and was thereafter known as Com.pany 
I, Ninety-eighth Pennsylvania Infantry. By the 26th September, seven more 
companies had been mustered in the following order, D, C, F, A, E, K and 
B, and encamped at Camp Ballier, near Girard College, in Philadelphia. 
With the exception of Company A, ninety-five per cent, of the enlisted 
men were of German birth or parentage; Company A, or as more familiarly 
known the Irish wing of the German Regiment, is however fully entitled 
to and proud of the name of German Regulars, by which one of the gen- 
erals on the field desig-nated them after the gallant and victorious battle 
of Williamsburg, Virginia, as well as those others who expressed their 
thoughts in the tongue of the Fatherland. 

On September 30, the eight companies left Philadelphia for Washington, 
District of Columbia, where they were attached to the Fourth Army Corps 
under General Keyes. During the month of December, Companies G 
and H joined the regiment in its camp near Tennallytown, thereby com- 
pleting the full regimental organization of ten companies. 

On arrival at this camp, early in October, the colonel at once commenced 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 533 

a rigid course of instruction in the duties of a soldier, such as company 
and biittalion drills, guard mount, picket duty, manual of arms, etc., as 
well as establishing a school for officers, and with pride every member 
of the regiment may say to-day, that when in the spring of 18G2, it broke 
its camp, he belonged to a well-drilled and thoroughly organized body of 
volunteer soldiers, destined to make their mark in the hot work before 
them. In the beginning of March, the regiment hailed with joy the order 
to march on the enemy, ready to do battle in a righteous cause; it was, 
however, sorely disappointed, when, after a few days, the army was ordered 
to return across the Potomac and encamp again on its old ground. Mean- 
while the plan of operations against the capital of the Confederacy, Rich- 
mond, was changed, and in the later days of March the army was embarked 
and transported to Fortress Monroe, to begin the memorable campaign on 
the Peninsula. The regiment bore its share of hardships in the invest- 
ment of Yorktowu, holding a position near Warwick Court House, doing 
picket duty, building entrenchments and corduroy roads during all of April, 
and until the evacuation and abandonment of the rebel works. 

Following up the enemy closely on the 5th of May, the long-looked for 
moment arrived, when the regiment was destined to receive its baptism 
of fire, in front of the rebel Fort ^fagruder near Williamsburg, Virginia. 
The prospect of our valor and courage must have been rather a discourag- 
ing one to our commander, after the severe march over almost impassable 
I'oads, and in a drenching . rain storm, and the speaker often recalls him 
to his mind's eye marching down the line, uttering words of encourage- 
ment and appealing to our sense of honor and duty, to show ourselves as 
men who could be depended upon in the hour of trial and danger. Bravely 
it followed its leader, and nobly did it do its duty, so well, that after the 
battle was over, it was taken from the brigade, and assigned to the special, 
hazardous and honorable duty of following up the retreating enemy, as one 
of the organizations composing the advance guard under General Stone- 
man until we reached the vicinity of Richmond. It would take me too 
long, and would perhaps become too tiresome to you, Were I to give a de- 
tailed account of its marches and engagements, through that terrible cam- 
paign in the summer of 1862, when, in August, this noble Army of the 
Potomac, found itself at Harrison's Landing on the James river, a shat- 
tered, bleeding and almost discouraged remnant of its former self, neither 
will I discuss the reasons for the disastrous ending of this campaign, but 
will simply say, that under the severest trials and experience, the Ninety- 
eighth was always found ready and willing to do its duty without murmur- 
ing or fault-finding. 

Shortly, however, the line of march was taken up again, as the rebel 
forces had turned their attention to the army of General Pope, who stood 
between Washington and Richmond. The division to which the regiment 
was attached was ordered to Alexandria, and, after disembarking, imme- 
diately advanced to Centreville, where it was assigned to the not very 
pleasant but important duty of covering the retreat of Pope's army which 
had been defeated in the second battle of Bull Run ; this was successfully 
accomplished, and well may the members of the regiment feel proud of 
having had part in insuring the safety of the Capitol of the Nation at 
35 



534 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

that particular time. Then followed Lee's invasion of the north, the battle 
of South Mountain and Antietam, the capture of Miles at Harper's Ferry, 
whom the division was sent to reinforce, but who had capitulated before 
it reached him, the chase after a foraging detachment of rebels, and the 
return to the Army of the Potomac near New Baltimore, Virginia. 

Here the division was attached to the famous Sixth Corps, whose for- 
tune became hereafter its own until the close of the war. General Burn- 
side having assumed command of the army about this time the order was 
given to advance by way of Fredericksburg, where, on the 13th of De- 
cember, 1862, a terrific battle was fought with disastrous results to the 
Union arms. The army then went into winter quarters on the north side 
of the Rappahannock, and, with the exception of the Burnside stuck in 
the mud march, remained quiet until the spring of 1863. 

Meanwhile the command of the army had been transferred to fighting 
Joe Hooker, who, on the 1st of May, crossed the river a few miles above 
the city with the bulk of the army, leaving the Sixth Corps under com- 
mand of fthat famous soldier and fatherly commander) John Sedgwick, in 
front of Fredericksburg, with instructions to take the rebel intrenchments 
in the. rear of the city. This task was nobly accomplished by the corps 
on the 3d of May, the regiment as usual taking a conspicuous part in this 
action. The line of march was almost immediately taken up again towards 
Chancellorsville, but General Hooker having meanwhile been defeated at 
this point, General Lee sent heavy reinforcements against the gallant 
Sixth, checking our advance at Salem Church. Stubbornly fighting against 
superior numbers the corps steadily retraced its steps, and reached the 
north side of the river on the 5th sustaining a very heavy loss in its 
numbers. This ended the Hooker campaign and brought the regiment 
back to its former quarters until June 20, when it became apparent that 
the wily rebel leader, Lee was planning another advance into the loyal 
States, but shrouded his movements in such impenetrable darkness, that 
his army was well on its way before the Union commander had any idea 
of his intentions. 

July 1 found the regiment at Manchester, Maryland, while other corps 
had already opened the ball at this renowned field of Gettysburg where 
we have assembled to-day, and where the greatest struggle for mastery 
took place between the old, well-tried opponents, the armies of the Potomac 
and Northern Virginia. 

In the evening the corps was ordered to Gettysburg, the Ninety-eighth 
having the right of the line. No one of the participants will ever forget 
that march of thirty-eight miles with but little rest. Weary and footsore 
it arrived on the afternoon of July 2, and immediately went into action 
from the position yonder where we have just rededicated one of the monu- 
ments. Nothing daunted by their weariness, or even the retreat of their 
comrades of other corps, who were closely followed by the enemy, they 
went forward at the word of command, and, after having fixed bayonets, 
with a Union hurrah. 

Here, again, at a critical moment, the regiment fully proved that it 
was composed of no mean material, for had it not stemmed the current of 
the rebel advance God knows what would have been the result if the rebels 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 535 

had' captured yonder heights, but the timely arrival of the regiment proved 
to De the turning tide of the fortunes of war in two distinct results. The 
retreating Union soldiers, amazed by this outburst of confidence and devo- 
tion to duty, and seeing the line steadily advancing, halted, faced about 
and joined in the forward movement of their brethren of the Ninety-eighth, 
while, on the other hand, the rebels received a check to their onward march, 
wheeled about and exchanged the role of pursuers to the one of pur- 
sued. The regiment drove the retreating foe beyond this stone wall into 
the wheatfield, and was, later in the day, withdrawn to this position, which 
it held successfully until the close of the battle. 

•I have shown you with pardonable pride that in several important ac- 
tions the regiment fulfilled its duty to the best of its ability, and would 
but casually mention here, that about one year later, it was again its 
good fortune to save the capital of the Nation, being the first regiment 
of the corps to drive the rebels from in front of Fort Stevens, under the 
eyes of the late lamented Lincoln, who personally tendered his thanks to 
the commander for the part taken in defeating the rebel designs, and 
assuring him that his services at that particular critical time should never 
be forgotten. For three long days the fate of the Union hung in the 
balance on this Pennsylvania field, thousands of her sons were engaged in 
this conflict, on her own dear soil, whilst thousands, aye millions, were 
praying for the success of our arms. At last the decision was rendered, 
the God of battles crowned with victory the Union army, and the highest 
tide of treason and rebellion had been reached on this very field. Hence- 
forth the unholy cause entered upon its decline, which, while not as rapid 
as we all could have wished, at least showed itself in their efforts becoming 
weaker, for no offensive movement in force towards the northern states 
was again attempted. 

Well do you remember, however, how stubbornly almost every inch of 
ground was contested, and thousands upon thousands of lives had yet 
to be sacrificed before the death blow to treason was struck at Appomattox 
in '65, the Ninety-eighth being no mean factor in the struggle to the end. 

But let us now look to the immediate cause of our assemblage here to- 
day. Shortly after peace was restored to our bleeding country, a spon- 
taneous movement started up to preserve to posterity the outlines of the 
field of Gettysburg, proclaiming as it does to-day the valor of the citizen 
soldiery of the American Republic. 

A commission was formed, subscriptions solicited, and section after sec- 
tion acquired by purchase and donation until to-day nearly the whole field 
of carnage is owned by the Gettysburg Battlefield Association. Regi- 
mental associations showed a tendency to commemorate the position held 
by each of them during the terrific struggle, in marking the spots by the 
erection of monuments. 

One after another was raised upon the field by the survivors, and well 
may you feel proud, my comrades, that a few years ago you put your 
shoulders to the wheel, and by a united effort, and with the assistance of 
your friends, you placed yonder memento upon this field in memory of our 
fallen comrades. 

The efforts of the survivors of the war induced the representatives of 



536 Pennsylvania at Oettyshurg. 

our beloved State of Pennsylvania to give them a helping hand in 'this 
noble undertaking by appropriating a certain sum of money for a monu- 
ment, to be erected upon the spot where each Pennsylvania regiment and 
battery fought and bled in those memorable days. To-day we havf as- 
sembled to dedicate these monuments in the presence of our .wives and 
children, our uncles and aunts and our friends in general, many a hand 
has again clasped the hand of comrades after ari interval of years, friend- 
ships have been renewed, past hardships and privations have been brought 
vividly to our mind, let us also drop a silent tear for those near and dear 
ones who freely gave their lives for the land they loved, as we look upon 
this beautiful tribute of love to them, which but a few moments ago, has 
been stripped of the flag" that hid its beauties. 

May you, my comrades, remember, that the visitors to this spot, in the 
years when we too shall have joined the great army above, may drop a 
grateful tear to our memory, and thank the Lord, that, in the hour of 
danger to our beloved land, there were freemen enough to stand between 
their loved homes and those whose aim it was to destroy the liberties of a 
free people. But above all else may it continue to preach to posterity for 
years to come, that loyalty to our country should ever be second only to 
loyalty to our creator, the heavenly Father of us all. 

May it serve as a warning to future generations that the American citizen 
will allow no one, no matter who he may be, to insult his flag or attempt 
to wrest one single star from its place. While we welcome under its folds 
the oppressed of all the world, let it be decidedly understood that those 
who bared their breast to the murderous bullet in defense of it, are .ical- 
ously guarding its interests, and will not allow it to be lowered, dragged 
into the dust, or used for any other but the noblest purposes of mankind. 

May we so direct the education of our children, and through them again 
our children's children, that when they look upon these monuments, they 
may imbibe that spirit of devotion to country and flag which made their 
ancestors ready and willing to offer their lives in the defense of the Star 
Spangled Banner, the emblem of liberty, equal rights and national imity. 
O Lord, grant that it may wave until the end of time, over a nation of 
freemen enjoying happiness, prosperity and unity ! 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

99TH REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

September 11, 1SS9 
ADDRESS OF CAPTAIN ALBERT MAGNIN 

rOMRADES of the Ninety ninth: — During the years that have passed 
since you stood among these rocks and boulders, and amid the roar 






of artillery and the rattle of musketry, you saw the glorious banner 



of freedom upheld in all its dignity and glory, the name of Gettysburg 



'Organized at Philadolphia ficni July 36, ISCl to January IS, 1862', to serve three years. 
On tbe expiration of its term of service tlie original members (except veterans) were 
mustered out and the organization composed of veterans and recruits retained in service 
until July 1, 1965, when it was mustered out. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 537 

has been the synonym around which has centered all your thoughts of 
patriotism, of honor, of bravery, and of devotion to the cause for which 
we fought on so many other fields, and which was finally brought to a 
triumphant close when the sunburst of victory perched upon our banners at 
Appomattox. We feel proud of the fact that on this field of Gettysburg, 
when the cause of treason received its death blow, the Ninety-ninth was in 
the forefront of the battle, and here, on the extreme left of the Union 
lines, its gallant color guard held aloft the glorious old banner which formed 
the rallying point for thousands and saved the day. 

We stand here the remnant of what was once the glorious old Ninety- 
ninth Regiment, and, as I look into your eyes and try to read your thoughts 
as we stand together on the field of Gettysburg, I feel that no tongue can 
utter, no pen can write, no imagination can fathom the myriad emotions 
that surcharge your hearts, emotions, tender in their sternness and pure in 
their exultation, emotions tender in their remembrance of the noble boys 
of the Ninety-ninth, who upon this bloody field, over a quarter of a century 
ago, gave up their lives that liberty might triumph and the Union be 
preserved ;. exultant because those lives were not given in vain, and that 
out from these rocks, from out this field whose earth was enriched bv the 
blood of our comrades there was grown up such a sentiment, such a love, 
such a regard, such a loyalty as can never be effaced as long as the 
name of Gettysburg remains. And Gettysburg shall be synonymous with 
heroism and valor and liberty as long as the human race shall endure 

Who then shall dare henceforth to lay the axe at the roots of our na- 
tionality, since those roots are nurtured by the blood of our comrades? 
Who shall dare utter the name of Gettysburg and treasure in his mind 
aught but reverence and devotion and pride for the men who fought at 
Gettysburg and carried the banner of the Union in triumph over the van- 
quished traitors ? 

We meet here to day to dedicate, to devote, aye, to consecrate, this monu- 
ment to the memory of our comrades, who, on this spot, gave up their lives 
that we might live. We know that it is net that we deem it needful 
to raise this pillar of stone to perpetuate their fame, for upon these fields 
they carved for themselves an inheritance that naught but Omnipotence 
itself can obliterate. In every loyal heart, in every home, in every hamlet, 
village, and crowded city, in every nation, in every clime, in letters of 
blood is written their epitaph — Gettysburg ! In that one word is embodied 
all that ever has or ever can be written to exemplify and make manifest 
the noblest attributes of American manhood. 

But we come here today as the survivors of this regiment who, upon this 
spot, shared the dangers of the day, and rear this shaft, not simply in their 
memory, but as a guide to their children when we shall have joined the 
silent majority on high. Here in the years to come, as in the yeflrs since 
those terrible days of July, 1863, this battlefield shall be the "Mecca," and 
this monument one of the shrines at which patriotism shall come to offer her 
devotions. Here our children and our children's children and the children of 
unborn generations shall come to pay tribute to undying valor and heroism. 



538 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

"By her soldiers' graves Columbia proves 
How fast toward morn the night of manhood moves. 
Those low white lines at Gettysburg remain, 
The sacred record of her humblest slain, 
Whose children's children in their time will come 
To view with pride their hero father's tomb, 
While down the ages run the patriot line 
'Till rich tradition malses each tomb a shrine." 

^nd as they read from this tablet of the Ninety-ninth at Gettysburg 
they will realize in all its fulness that from every blade of grass, from out 
these rocks, there comes from the blood of our dead comrades an exhorta- 
tion which should be coupled with every lullaby song, and which every 
mother in this land should teach her child, that "loyalty is a virtue, and 
treason is a crime." 

One of the gloomy fruits of the war is the blight it casts upon the loveli- 
ness of nature . The regions where great armies have encamped or fought 
are left trampled and desolate, as if swept by a hurricane — ^the trees, far 
and wide, are scathed as with fire. But it is the restorative work of 
peace to hide the bloody tracks of war, and cover over with the healing 
sympathies of verdure, the rude gashes and dismal wastes left by the vio- 
lence of embattled foes. In the hollow fragments of the bursted shells 
the sweet violets find soil to root and bloom ; on the mounds where cannon 
frowned and thundered, the gentle grass is waving; the hopeful step of 
the reaper has supplanted the dull tramp of the sentinel ; the tinkling 
sheep bells chime where the roll of the drum or roar of musketry shook 
the heavens, and where the sulphurous smoke of battle darkened and fouled 
the air ten thousand flowers now swing their tiny censers and exhale their 
fragrance before God's peaceful throne. 

And so we come here to-day with our hearts filled with the memory of 
our comrades as fresh as when the news was young, not in anger, not in 
a spirit of resentment, not to renew the bitter memories of the past, but 
to gather and treasure the sweet tender remembrance of the fact that our 
comrades who sleep upon this and other fields, and those who during the 
past quarter of a century have been mustered out, were not animated by 
a spirit of conquest, were not inspired by hate, jealously, or selfish ambition, 
but by the single desire to maintain and defend the Government for which 
our mothers had prayed and our fathers had bled. We here raise this 
tablet and inscribe upon it the. cold stern figures which there you see, 
that you may learn to love your country more by knowing what it cost ; 
that you may know that it came out of the furnace fires of '61 to '65 
regenerated, purified and disenthralled; redeemed, 'not by silver and gold, 
ihe implements of ignoble peace, but by the blood of our brothers, fathers, 
friends . 

Far bf it from me to ascribe to the Ninety-ninth more than its full share 
of the glory that belongs to all the heroes of Gettysburg. That glory be- 
longs not to one man or to one section, but to all, as each section of our 
country vied with the other in sending men and material to break down 
the rebellion, so corps vied with corps, division with division, brigade 
with brigade, regiment with regiment, company with company, and man 
with man in acts of bravery and endurance on this and other fields. But 



Pennsylvania at Oettyshurg. 539 

proud is the man who can say, "I was at Gettysburg, and I wore the 
Kearny patch, and fought with the Ninety-ninth." 

But what led to Gettysburg? Shall I tell you of the various causes 
or grievances, or imaginary causes or wrongs that brought about the 
rebellion? I take it that it is not necessary here further than to say: 
that it was the inevitable result of an antagonism of sentiments, interests 
and social structure, in the two great sections of the Union, — the North 
and the South. The foundation of these tendencies were laid before the 
formation of the Union, in early colonial times. The conflict commenced 
as soon as a close Union was attempted, and the Constitution was adopted 
only through the personal influence of Washington and other statesmen 
of that time and from the general conviction that it was essential to the 
protection of the new Republic from England and other European powers. 
Some provisions of the Constitution involved a compromise between the 
North and the South, and compromises were the order of the day until 
the South became so arrogant in their demands concerning the institution 
of slavery that finally compromises became more and more disagreeable 
to the North, and upon the election of that great and good man, Abraham 
Lincoln, the South began to prepare for war, and on one bright morn- 
ing in April, twenty-eight years ago, the people of the North, although 
repeatedly warned, were startled by the announcement which flashed over 
the electric wires, that the flag, the stars and stripes, the flag of freedom, 
the flag of Washington, had been fired upon? By whom? By an alien? 
No, but by our brothers of the South, here within the confines of our own 
Republic, and almost before the reverberations of the rebel guns that 
fired on Fort Sumter had died away on Charleston harbor, thousands of 
brave men, and brave boys too, had donned the habiliments of war and 
were ready to do and die for their country. That overt act on the part 
of the traitors which was meant to fire the southern heart with the spirit 
of rebellion against the best government the world ever saw, had a counter- 
effect. The loyal North was alive. Everywhere was excitement and 
confusion, but with it all a stern determination that this Union must and 
should be preserved. 

Various and conflicting were the opinions as to the probable duration of 
the war, and few imagined that for four long, sad and weary years this land 
of ours was to be deluged with blood. 

Let us go back to that quiet Sabbath morning when the lightning-tipped 
wires flashed the news, "Fort Sumter fired on." The echoes of the guns 
shook the hearthstone of every house in the land, it was the beginning 
of the fight. How we questioned one another as to the fate of the 
gallant Anderson and his belcagured little band. How we differed 
as to the outcome. Some saw the end close at hand, others saw the end 
afar and over a bloody chasm, all felt that the aggressor must fall. The 
streets of the city filled with people, here a face pallid with horror, there 
a face set in rigid lines by the perception of a painful duty, on all was 
written in unmistakable signs which the horror the thought of war alone 
can bring. 

This was the message that flashed over the wires: "New York, April 
13, 1861. The rebels opened J^re on Major Anderson and his little force 



540 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

in Fort Sumter at daybreak on the 12th ; the bombardment is still going 
on;" and then there was silence. The streets teem with aimless wanderers, 
going — going, anywhere — everywhere, alone or in couples, rarely speaking, 
scarcely thinking — possessed — benumbered with restless horror. The win- 
dows are full of blanched faces looking out upon the straggling crowds 
with wondering pity — matron, wife, child — full of the grim dread that has 
come into the common life. The Sabbath bells proclaim the hour of wor- 
ship, within the sanctuary crowd the hushed and palli^d throng. Country, 
blood, war, are mingled strangely with thoughts of God; Sinai's thunders 
and the booming guns of Fort Moultrie. That which we had learned to 
think could never be, had come! Then came the call to arms. The first 
shock was over, the bowed head of yesterday was raised to-day, buoyant 
and confidant, flags flying, drums beating, companies and regiments re- 
cruited, and then the cry was, "On to Richmond — on to the capital of 
the traitors." Oh, what painful recollections does that cry recall. Days of 
preparation and delay, days of anxiety, and the days and the weeks go by 
and still the flag of the Conferderacy waves over Richmond. The ninety 
days of prophecy have expired — all at once the air was full of shadow, 
the hot July sun looked down upon an expectant Nation, the army has 
started toward Richmond. Then came the clash of arms. Then the 
throbbing electric wires flashed forth the one fell word. "Fighting!" Then 
the exultant cry "the enemy falling back !" Then the electric pulse which 
was wont to thrill along the wires seemed to have been hushed, palsied 
with the woe it was called upon to bear, and then it said, "the Union 
army in full retreat on Washington." This was the result of the first 
"On to Richmond!" "On to Richmond!" does it not take you back, 
comrades, to the camp life, to the rough huts in the streets of Washington 
and upon the public squares, back to the stirring times of the begin- 
ning, when our hearts burned with new zeal as we learned of the fate 
of that fairest and most beloved of young warriors, Ellsworth, he of the 
gold-brown eyes and sunny hair? "On to Richmond!" How strangely 
familiar the words, even now that years have passed since they possessed 
such dire significance. "On to Richmond!" meant on to death — on to hard- 
ships, to weary marches, to privations, to wounds, to wasting sickness, 
to prison, to starvation! "On to Richmond!" We break camp and fall 
into line and the words of the commander ring out upon the air, "At- 
tention! Take arms! Unfix bayonets! Shoulder arms! Forward, file left, 
march!" and as we stepped out, at each step drew nearer to a soldier's 
grave. "On to Richmond!" "On to Bull Run; to the Peninsula; to Wil- 
liamsburg ; to the swamps of the Chickahominy ; to Fair Oaks ; on to within 
sight of the spires of Richmond !" But fate ordered that the days should 
roll into weeks, and the weeks into months, and the months into years 
before the stars and stripes should take the place of the stars and bars 
on the capitol of the Confederacy. 

Then came the seven days' fight, then Bull Run again and Antietam ! 
Then Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville, and then Gettysburg. 

And of the Ninety-ninth at Gettysburg ! It would be a work of superero- 
gation were I to attempt to tell you men what you did on this field, on 
those eventful days of July, 1863. It was my fortune then to have been 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 541 

a member of the Twenty-sixth Regiment who shared your glory in an- 
other part of this battlefield, but it was also my fortune to have been 
an eye witness to the gallantry of the men of the Ninety-ninth. Before 
the battle I had been detailed for duty with Winslow's Battery of the 
Third Corps (Battery D, First New York Artillery), and from yonder wheat- 
field where the battery was so gallantly supported by Ward's Brigade, 
I saw the boys of the Ninety-ninth as, with a heroism born of indomitable 
energy and love of country, they bravely stood, a wall of living flesh, 
between their homes and the desperate attacks of the rebels who were 
hurled upon them time and again with relentless fury. 

But when at the battle of Cold Harbor the veterans of the Twenty-sixth 
became veterans of the Ninety-ninth, I then became one of you and we 
blended the white diamond of fighting Joe Hooker with the red diamond of 
the intrepid and daring Phil. Kearny, and in the interchange of thought in 
the long years that have since passed I have learned in part of the doings 
of the brave men of the Ninety-ninth on those eventful days in July, 1863, 
when, under the leadership of the brave John W. Moore, they won for them- 
selves a renown as imperishable and as inseparable from that of Gettys- 
burg as the name of yonder "Devil's Den." 

Of him who led you on that day I fain would speak, because, as you know, 
when, in after months, he left the Ninety-ninth, it was to become the colonel 
of the Two hundred and third, and when that gallant regiment stormed the 
mounds of that Carolina fortress by the sea, the brave, courageous John W. 
Moore was at its head, and with the colors in his hand he fell, pierced by a 
rebel bullet, and from off the heights of Fort Fisher his spirit took its flight 
to join the boys of the Ninety-ninth "gone before," and his life blood mingled 
with the sands that were swept by the waters of the great Atlantic. 

Taking then, the story, as it comes to me from living and dead comrades 
of the Ninety-ninth, and from my position as I stood at the guns of that bat- 
tery in yonder field, we go back to the long and wearisome march from in 
front of Fredericksburg, and on the 30th of June, on a dull drizzly moraing, 
the regiment found itself at Taney town, in Maryland. Then on the 1st of 
July, passing Emmitsburg, and having halted for dinner, you were inter- 
rupted by the arrival of an aide-de-camp with dispatches for General Bir- 
ney, then commanding the division; then came the command, "Fall in!" and 
again you were on the march, not to rest again until the name of Gettys- 
burg was added to the list of battles to be inscribed upon your banners. I 
doubt not it comes back to you as though it were but yesterday the feeling 
that animated your inmost soul when you learned that once again your feet 
rested upon Pennsylvania soil; how, with renewed vigor and quickened foot- 
steps, every man strove to keep his place in the ranks, and as we neared 
this now historic field and saw the wounded as they were taken by, and 
learned of the death of the gallant General Reynolds, and listened with bated 
breath to the mutterings of deep-toned artillery in the distance, you all took 
firmer grip upon sword-hilt or musket and vowed, each one for himself, that 
come weal or woe, the rebels should find no repose until driven from Penn- 
sylvania's soil. Night came on and in yonder peach orchard you bivouacked 
for the night. The first day's fight had been fought ; the brave Reynolds 
and thousands of brave boys in blue lay cold in death's embrace, and thou- 



542 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg . 

sands more lay mangled and torn by shot and shell, and yet the rebel army 
confronted us, bold, daring and defiant. Ah, what hopes and fears dis- 
turbed your fitful slumbers in yon orchard on that night, and when the morn- 
ing of the 2d came we all felt that the day would decide whether we were 
to have a home and a country, and ere the first streakings of the morning 
light broke from the horizon, you, men of the Ninety -ninth, took up your 
position to the left of the peach orchard in front of the wheatfield, with 
Berdan's Sharpshooters in your front, looking out for the appearance of the 
enemy . 

It was while here, that in response to the great demand for rations, a de- 
tail was sent out, and a beef was kUled, but before it could be distributed 
the fight was on. 

You will doubtless remember that when you left the peach orchai-d, you 
were taken to a continuation of the stone wall, somewhat to the right of 
Little Round Top, and sometime in the forenoon a detail of skirmishers 
under command of Lieutenant Thomas A. Kelly, were marched in the di- 
rection of the Sherfy House, and in the rear of the peach orchard and de- 
ployed as skirmishers, advancing in an oblique line through the orchard, 
crossing the Emmitsburg road and into the field beyond, where they discov- 
ere.d the rebel skirmish line advancing also in an oblique direction towards 
the left of our line in the direction of Round Top. Shots were exchanged, 
and the skirmishers of the Ninety-ninth having opened the fight, fell back to 
where the Third Corps was then in line of battle. After this, Berdan's Sharp- 
shooters discovered the same line of rebel skirmishers, and to them heretofore 
has been given the honor of the first interchange of shots on the morning of 
the 2d. I think it was about 3 o'clock in the afternoon that the Ninety-ninth 
came into the wheatfield and passed on in front of and supporting Win- 
slow's Battery, your position being front of the grove and overlooking that 
valley between Emmitsburg road and Round Top. But to go on in detail 
and note the movements of the gallant Ninety-ninth would occupy more 
time than is allotted me here to-day. The fight is fairly on, the regiment 
moves to the left of the brigade. Shot and shell go whistling in all their 
terrific fury through the grove and wheatfield, the men at the batteries pour 
grape and canister into the ranks of the rebels who came through the gap 
left by the Ninety-ninth, who are by this time desperately engaged on the 
left of the brigade at the Devil's Den, iu a desperate effort to save Smith's 
New York Battery, and with your colors resting against one of the guns 
you made it the rallying point and saved the day. It was the extreme left 
of the line, and here it was that the rebel General Hood found the Ninety- 
ninth obstructing his way to the capture of Little Rovmd Top, the key to the 
battlefield of Gettysburg. And when they came out from behind those 
rocks at the Devil's Den, they met with terrific slaughter from the rifles 
held by the men of the Ninety-ninth ; and right here, my comrades, you men 
of the Ninety-ninth, held this position until the Pennsylvania Reserves oc- 
cupied Little Round Top. 

The right of the line was then giving away, the rebels had forced their way 
through the gap that you had' left near the peach orchard when you were 
ordered here. Winslow's Battery was without support, and the rebels were 
upon the guns when the One hundred and fifteenth Pennsylvania gallantly 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 543 

came to the rescue. But the rebels had effected a break upon your right, 
aud under the damaging lire this position became untenable, but right nobly 
did you hold it in spite of all odds, and not until ordered by General Ward 
to fall back did you give way for the regulars under General Sykes. 

All honor to the gallant Ninety-ninth. Would that I had power to depict 
the many acts of individual courage and heroism that made it possible for 
the achievements of the great results that I have imperfectly related. 

The morning report of the Ninety-ninth Regiment on the 2d of July, shows 
that there were three hundred and thirty-nine men present, including twenty- 
one officers, of which there were about three hundred in line, all told. Of 
this number, the official reports show one officer and seventeen men killed, 
four officers and seventy-seven men wounded and eleven men missing in 
action, or a total of one hundred and ten. This report, although official, is 
incorrect, as a full and searching investigation shows that twenty-seven men 
and one officer were killed and ninety-two wounded and missing, or a total 
of one hundred and twenty. 

The regiment, upon going into the fight, was under command of Major 
John W. Moore, with Captain William J. Uhler acting lieutenant-colonel and 
Captain Peter Fritz, Jr., acting major. During the progress of the fight on 
the 2d of July, Major Moore and Captain Uhler both being wounded, the 
command temporarily devolved upon Captain Fritz. Major Moore resumed 
command the following day. Besides the officers named. Lieutenant John 
R. Nice of Company H was mortally wounded and died the next day. Lieu- 
tenant James Doyle, Company E, wounded and taken prisoner but escaped 
to our lines under cover of night. The other officers wounded were Lieu- 
tenant D. C. Winebrenner of Company A and Lieutenant William W. Bales 
of Company K. 

Think not, my comrades, because I call by names these men who wore the 
insigna of rank, that they are more worthy of mention than the other men 
who wore the chevron of the non-commissioned officers or the plain blouse of 
the private soldier, for had I the genius I would rear before you a column 
upon which would be emblazoned in letters of living fire the names of all 
those brave men of the musket, whose indomitable bravery and intrepid 
heroism made it possible for the stars of the general to shine, and in the 
laurel wreath that justly crowns the names of Heintzelman, and Kearny, and 
Sickles, and Birney, and Ward, and all the other gallant leaders of the old 
Third Corps, I would have you read the names of all those immortal heroes 
who wore the diamond, and interwined with the names of Fritz, and Leidy, 
and Biles, and Moore, and Tomliuson, I would weave the names of all the 
other gallant men of the Ninety-ninth. 

Captain W. M. Worrall, Company D (chairman of the Monument Com- 
mittee, and who is present with us to-day), who had but twenty-nine men in 
the engagement, left thirteen of them on the field (nearly one-half) six killed 
and seven, most of them mortally wounded. The balance were never able to 
rejoin their company. His company lost the heaviest percentage, being in 
the fierciest part of the struggle, the captain making a narrow escape, fight- 
ing bravely to the last. 

And with the colors of the Ninety-ninth, I would have you see in the name 



544 Pennsylvania at Getty shurg. 

of Harvey Munsell and Amos Casey, the gallant color-sergeants, the name, 
aye, the face, the features, of all that gallant band, living or dead, who, dur- 
ing those years of '61 and '65, walked in the shadow of the grand old banner. 
Our flag — yes, our flag, we fought for it, our comrades died for it; it is our 
flag ; it is our Nation's flag ; it represents our sovereignty . It is the symbol 
of our Nation's life, it attracts our sympathies, it represents our joys and 
sorrows, our hopes and fears. It is the rallying point of sentiment and 
energy. With it is associated all that is grand and ennobling, and all the 
heroic deeds by land and sea that adorn the pages of our national history. 
In lines of fire upon its stripes and from out the shimmer of its radiant stars 
stand forth the names of all those who followed it, and fought for it, and 
died for it. It is our flag, born with the great Republic, and destined for- 
ever to float o'er the land of the free and the home of the brave. 

As I watched, a few moments ago, comrades, the drapery that veiled this 
shaft of granite, I saw that the cords that held it were grasped by the hands 
of one who, in her presence here to-day, made manifest that sterling patriot- 
ism that burns in the hearts of the men of the Ninety-ninth. With their 
history, as I have before said, is blended the life and death of the gallant 
Phil Kearney, and when your gallant comrade. Captain Abram Setley, laid 
aside his sword and resumed the peaceful life of the cilivian, there came to 
bless his home a boy and a girl, the boy was christened Phil Kearny, and, 
like his great namesake, has been taken to the other shore. The girl was 
named Chantilla, in commemoration of the battlefield upon which Kearny 
gave up his life, and to-day the men of the Ninety-ninth share with Comrade 
Setley the pride of having this monument which speaks of the deeds of the 
gallant Kearny and his men, unveiled by his fair daughter. Miss Chantilla 
Setley, and to know that in the days to come, when we are gone, and pU- 
grim patriots come to this shrine, they will recall the fact in honor alike to 
the men of the Ninety-ninth and of American womanhood. 

I have spoken, my comrades, of our living, of our dead and of our wounded 
comrades upon the field, but there are others, alas, we cannot name, we 
know not what was their fate. Going with us into the fight in all the 
strength of their manhood, perhaps seen to fall and that is all — missing in 
action — in yonder vast city of the dead, among the thousands of brave boys, 
whose blood went to enrich these fields, are the graves of many a poor 
fellow whose only epitaph is that dread word "unknown." 

"Unknown as veiled within the sheltering sod, 
Yet dear to liberty and known to God." 

And among that number, my comrades, are those of the Ninety-ninth, who 
on that fateful day, did and dared and died that we might enjoy the price- 
less heritage of liberty. And of those I call to mind was Corporal James 
Casey of Company K, whose twin brother. Sergeant Amos Casey, now 
stands before me holding the dear old flag for which his brother died. On 
that eventful day, as our lines fell back. Corporal Casey, industriously ap- 
plied himself to breaking the guns that strewed the ground to prevent them 

"When tne regiment reached the Emett.sburg Road it was deployed as skirmishers 
and videttes sent forward in charge of Lieut. S. Bonnaffon, Jr. During the night of the 
3d and the early morning of the 4th they discovered that the RelJels were retreating or 
preparing to retreat and so reported." 



Pennsylvania at Getty shur(j. 545 

falling into the hands of the rebels. He found one that was loaded, and re- 
marldng to Major Moore that he was going to hr.ve another shot, he fired, 
and at the same moment was himself struck. Major Moore and Sergeant 
Graham attempted to bring him from the field, but he bravely told them to 
lay him down and save themselves, and nevermore was Corporal Casey 
heard of. It was a death wound. He was a brave lad, and the ghouls who 
robbed his body and thus prevented his identification knew it, for upon his 
breast he wore the Kearny Badge, and you, men of the Ninety-ninth, know 
none but brave men wore that. 

And now, my comrades, it is to men like these of whom I have spoken, and 
who are but types of our gallant dead that we dedicate this monument to-day. 
To many of us never again will be vouchsafed the privilege of coming within 
its shadow, but let us take from here all the noblest aspirations that were 
wrapped up in the lives of our dead comrades ; let us for the i*emaining years 
that we may be allowed to remain here, rededicate our lives to the cause for 
which our comrades died. Let us take from their memories the most earnest 
lessons of citizenship, and learn to regard with all seriousness the duties of 
that citizenship which was made so valuable by their death, and to guard 
with vigilance the ark of our liberties brought safely through thj floods of 
•suffering. The confirmation of the Republic was the object of their efforts, 
and we know that the Republic can be maintained only on the eternal pillars 
of public intelligence, virtue and religion. Let us be warned, lest the land 
that cost us so dearly become only a scene where intrigue perpetually 
triumphs over truth, where justice is mocked, and where passions the most- 
absurd override the sacred interests of humanity. 

Keeping in view these things, let us so shape our lives and so inculate the 
same virtues in our children that when the last bugle notes shall resound 
through the corridors of heaven and the veterans of the Ninety-ninth are 
called to muster, we can proudly answer to our names and say we never 
deserted the cause. 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

102^ REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

September 11, 18S9 
ADDRESS OF CAPTAIN SAMUEL L. FULLWOOD 

rOMRADES of the One hundred and second Pennsylvania: — By the 
liberal action of the State of Pennsylvania, we have been brought to- 






gether upon this historic ground to dedicate this beautiful monument 



as indicating the position occupied by our regiment in the battle of Gettys- 
burg. It is fitting in our dedicatory proceedings that some statement should 



*Orsanlze(l principally at Pittsburgh in August, ISGl, to serve three years. On the expi- 
ration of its term of service the original members (except veterans) were mustered out, 
and the organization composed of veterans and recruits retained in service until June 28, 
1865, when it Avas mustered out. 



546 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

be made of the part taken by the regiment, not only in the battle but in the 
tactical and strategic movements preceding and associated with this great 
pivotal struggle of the rebellion. 

On the 13th June, 1863, the Sixth Corps was upon the south side of the 
river at Fredericksburg, confronting the command of A. P. Hill, while the 
rest of our army lay along the Rappahannock river up to Rapphaannock 
Station. Early's command was on that day as far north as Front Royal at 
the mouth of the Shenandoah Valley, with Longstreet at Culpeper. On the 
night of June 13, our corps moved to Dumfries, and on the 17th was at 
Fairfax ; 2'ith at Centreville ; on the 24th and 25th the army crossed the Po- 
tomac at Edwards' Ferry, concentrating near Frederick, Maryland On 
the 29th our corps was at New Windsor, while on that evening Stuart's 
Cavalry was at Westminister, eight or nine miles east, which place the 
corps reached early on the morning of June 30. Westminster was made 
the base of supplies for the army, and a detachment of about one hundred 
men made up of details from every company in the regiment, under Lieu- 
tenants David A. Jones and Jacob Drum remained in Westminster as a 
guard for the Sixth Corps' trains, while the corps, on July 1, moved eight 
miles north to Manchester, Maryland, forming the right wing of the army. 
About 9 o'clock that night the corps was ordered to hurry forward to Gettys- 
burg, where the army was being concentrated, our regiment returning to 
Westminster in charge of part of the corps' trains, where, upon our arrival 
that night, we were posted on picket, and as support to a Connecticut bat- 
tery on the west of the town where we remained throughout the 2d and 3d. 
On July 2, about 4 p. m., the detachment which had remained at West- 
minster was sent forward to Gettysburg in command of Lieutenant R. W. 
Lyon (who had been up to that time acting as regimental adjutant) as a 
guard for the ammunition train of about forty wagons and there being 
urgent need of the ammunition the horses were kept at their highest speed 
all night, reaching Gettysburg, a distance of thirty-six miles, at daybreak of 
the 3d. 

Upon reporting to General Wheaton, then commanding the division, the 
detail was ordered to report to Colonel David J. Nevin, commanding bri- 
gade, who assigned it to the Sixty-second New York, Lieutenant-Colonel 
Hamilton. It was placed on the left of the Sixty-second just at the rime 
that regiment was being deployed as skirmishers, and was marched to the 
left to the ground occupied by the monument, where it remained on skir- 
mish duty throughout the day, being under fire almost continually but not 
directly engaged. The detachment shared in all the duties performed by 
the Sixty-second New York, remaining in line of battle all of the 4th of 
July, and at dawn of the 5th the brigade was advanced across Plum creek, 
our detachment leading, in pursuit of the enemy. The pursuit was con- 
tinued by the Sixth Corps to Fairfield Pass, where the enemy was about to 
be attacked when another course was determined upon. General Sedgwick 
recalled, and the corps headed for Frederick, the regiment rejoining at Mid- 
dletown . 

While this stone is one of many to mark the general line of battle, yet the 
long list of engagements inscribed upon it, in many of which our regiment 
took a more active part than here, suggests another purpose. To the pasfeer- 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 547 

by that list is but the names of twenty-nine battles, more or less famed in the 
history of the war, but as we read, Fair Oaks, Malvern Hill, Salem Heights, 
Wilderness, Cold Harbor, Cedar Creek, we remember with sadness, and yet 
with a soldierly pride, that on these fields Kenney, Poland, Mooney, Large, 
Patterson, Kirkbride, Drum, the Mcllwains, Coleman, and one hundred 
and seventy-one others of our comrades laid down their lives to save the 
Union . 

The regiment has just one monument, and it is entirely proper that it 
should stand, not in busy city square or pleasure park, nor even in secluded 
cemetery, but where the gallant men it honors were always to be found, 
upon the line of battle. Nearly a generation has passed since President 
Lincoln stood on this field and uttered the immortal words at the dedication 
of the first battle monument erected here, "the world will little note, nor long 
remember, what we say; but it can never forget what they did here." 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

105™ REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

September 11, 1889 
ADDRESS OF CHAPLAIN J. C. TRUESDALE 

COMRADES: — Twenty-six years ago you were here, and did well your 
part in that awful conflict that for three days raged on this plain and 
over these granite hills. 
How these scenes around us stir the blood and revive the memories of 
other days. Here is the peach orchard, and there is the wheat field; and 
there is the Sherfy House ; yonder are the two Round Tops ; yonder are 
Culp's and Wolf's hills, and Seminary and Cemetery ridges. All along 
these hills and ridges more than two hundred guns volleyed and thundered 
in the most terrific cannonade ever heard on this continent. Yonder, in the 
edge of the woods, Reynolds, "the noblest Roman of them all," fell while 
bravely seeking to hold the enemy in check until our forces could come up ; 
yonder Pickett with 18,000 men made his famous charge on the center of our 
line, only to be mowed down as grass falls before the reaper; there Long- 
street vainly tried again and again to flank us and capture the batteries on 
Round Top ; over all this ground were the dead and the dying ; there our 
own regiment, on the 2d and .3d of July, lost in killed, wounded and missing 
more than half the force that went into the fight. Here, too, on this his- 



*Oriranized at Pittsburgh from September 9 to October 31, 1S61, to serve three years. 
On the e.viiiration of its term of service the original members (except veterans) were 
mustered out and the organization composed of veterans and recruits retained In ser- 
vice until Jul.v 11, 1S65, when it was mustered out. 



548 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

toric ground, only five months after the storm of battle had passed away, 
the immortal Lincoln stood, and uttered these words, so true, so fitting: 

We have met on a great battlefield of the war. We have come to dedicate a portion 
of this field as a final resting place for those who gave up their lives that the Nation 
might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this; but in a larger 
sense we cannot dedicate — we cannot consecrate — we cannot hallow this ground. The 
brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it far above our 
poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember, what we 
say here, but it can never forget what they did here. 

Twenty-four years have passed away since the war closed, and now, after 
so many years, we, the survivors of the old One hundred and fifth, have 
gathered to-day around this monument to dedicate it to the memory of our 
dead comrades — not only those who fell here — but all members of our 
regiment who died in battle, or from wounds or sickness during war. It 
is well for us, the living, to plant these marble shafts all over this battle- 
field . They talk to us of our soldier dead ; they are object l^sons — silent 
teachers of our country's history and institutions, and of loyalty to liberty 
and law. When our children and our children's children shall come, and 
when the stranger from other lands shall come, and read this battle-record, 
they will know that in our time there were men who had such love for their 
country, and courage of their convictions, that they did not count their lives 
dear to them if only this "Government of the people, by the people, for the 
people, might not perish from the eai'th." 

And yet, after all, how much more and better have these dead comrades 
done for themselves than we can possibly do for them? We erect and dedi- 
cate this monument to their memory, but they have made for themselves a 
monument more lasting than brass, more enduring than these rock-ribbed 
hills around us here to-day. We say the.v are dead! They died at Pair 
Oaks ; or along the Chickahominy ; or at Chancellorsville ; or here on this 
monumental battlefield of Gettysburg ; or in the Wilderness ; or at Deep 
Bottom; or somewhere in the hospital — yes they are dead, and yet they live. 
You remember the song we used to sing down in Virginia and make the 
pine woods ring with the echo of it: 

"John Brown's bod.v lies a-mouldering in the grave, 
But his soul goes marching on." 

Yes, and this grand army of our soldier dead is alive and is a living force 
in the world of to-day. They live in the memories and in the hearts of their 
kindred ; they live in the memories and in the hearts of all the loyal people 
of this land ; they live in the influence of their example ; they live in the .rrand 
results that have come to us as a Nation from this war. Are not these 
things so? Have the father and mother forgotten the boy that went out 
from their home never to return? Has the wife forgotten the husband of 
her youth? Have the children forgotten the father who died in the war? 

We remember those sad years, when God was purifying this Nation in the 
furnace heat of his judgments. 

"The air was full of farewells to the dying 
And mournings for the dead; 
The heart of Rachel, for her children crying. 
Would not be comforted." 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 549 

The passing years have moderated this grief somewhat, and yet there is, 
and ever will be, while life and memory last, the longing. 

"For the touch of a vanished hand 
And the sound of a voice that is still." 

Have the loyal people of this land forgotten their soldiers? Let Decora- 
tion Day answer ; let the millions our Government is paying out in pensions 
answer ; let the soldiers' homes in all these Northern States answer • the 
people of this land will never forget the men who fought their battles and 
saved the Nation's life. 

They live too in their influence. Shakespeare says: "The evil that men 
do lives after them, the good is oft interred with their bones." No, the good 
lives too and helps to make the world wiser and better. 

"Good deed — noble deeds — through the ages. 
Living in historic pages, 
Brighter glow and gleam immortal 
Ilnconsumed by moth or rust." 

Largely, human society is what it is to-day through the influence that has 
come down to it through the past — from the past. We are scholars of the 
past — the teachers of the future. A man dies but his influence does not die; 
a whole generation dies but its influence remains to bless or curse the living 
generation. Martin Luther died four hundred years ago, but the reformation 
inaugurated has come down to us through all these centuries and is a living 
power in the world to-day. John Calvin is dead, but his vindication of God's 
free sovereign grace will never die. Knox and Chalmers and Guthrie are 
dead, but Scotland to-day has her Christian people, her Christian Sabbath, 
her bible in every house, her school in every parish. You look on these 
things, and you say these men are not dead — they live in their influence. 
John Bunyan is dead, but the spirit of the immortal tinker walks the earth 
to-day, in that wonderful book, "the Pilgrim's Progress." Richard Baxter 
is dead, but how many pious souls have been comforted by his "Saints Ever- 
lasting Rest," how many unsaved ones by his "Call to the Unconverted." 
Robert Raikes is dead,, but he lives to-day in the Sabbath schools of the 
world. Elliot and Cary and Judson and Morrison and Martyn are dead, but 
the missionary cause is marching triumphantly, grandly onward to tak" the 
heathen for its inheritance and the uttermost parts of the earth for its 
possession. Washington and Jefferson and Lincoln aad Grant are dead, and 
yet they live. These soldier dead of ours— half a million of them— buried 
in the national cemetery, buried in the quiet churchyard at home, buried in 
the pine woods of the South, in lanknown graves, yes, 

"There are little mounds on southern soil. 
Whose graves they are, God only knows, 
They are shelter to those who in life's toil, 
Met death as bravo men meet their foes." 

They are dead, and yet they live. In the homes and communities from 
which they went out to die, and in all our land to-day they live. And they 
live too in the grand results of the war— the Nation saved ; the Union pre- 
served ; not one State gone out ; not one star blotted from the old flag ; 
slavery destroyed ; other nations inspired with a respect for us and a confi- 
dence in our future such as they never had before; the liberation of the spirit 
3G 



550 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

of progress; the Union not only preserved, but stronger than ever; the Na- 
tion no longer half free and half slave, but free, truly free and untrammeUed, 
to take its place and accomplish its mission among the nations. These are 
some of the results. In blood and treasure,- in suffering and tears, we paid 
a goodly price for these things, but are they not worth the price? 

This four year's fratricidal war was a dreadful thing, but for this Nation 
there was something worse than this war. The dissolution of the Union was 
worse; slavery was worse; and so, when the gage of battle was thrown down 
by those who wer^ determined to have a government with slavery for its 
corner-stone, we said rather than these things, let us have 

"War, dreadful war! 
V.ar on a hundred battlefields; 
War by land and by sea." 

We are sometimes charged with "waving the bloody shirt" Avhen we talk 
about the war. Well, if stating the cause of the wax* — what it meant, what 
it was fought for, what it has accomplished — if that be "waving the bloody 
shirt," then, in the name of all the Union soldiers living and dead, I say "let 
it wave." 

As to this regiment of ours, it needs no eulogy of mine; its eulogy is in the 
history of what it has done. It takes no back-seat in the history of the war. 
In point of time, it was four years making up its battle record. In point of 
distance, it was from Williamsburg clear through to Sailor's Creek. To give 
the history of its battles would be substantially to give the history of the 
Army of the Potomac. In drill, on the march, in battle, in all soldierly quali- 
ties, this regiment had no superior, and repeatedly drew words of praise 
from such generals as Kearny, Jameson, Graham and Birney. It was mus- 
tered in in 1861, one thousand strong; it was mustered out in July, 1865, with 
about one hundred and fifty of its original members in it. Its depleted ranks 
were filled up twice; the last time, just as the war was closing. What gave 
this regiment its fine reputation? First, it was made up of good material — a 
sprinkling of Germans as you will see by their names (and they made good 
soldiers), but largely, our regiment was Scotch-Irish. Look at the names: 
McKnight, Craig, Duff, Redic, Miller, Hamilton, McKellip, McKown, Gal- 
braith, McGriffiu, McGeary, Kelso, Millen, Kennedy, Campbell, etc., to the 
end of the company rolls. They came of fighting stock; not so good on a 
dash, perhaps, but just the men for holding on and pounding away if it 
should take all summer. The hardest and most stubborn fighting of the war 
was when the Scotch-Irish regiments. North and South, were pitted against 
each other. 

Then they were intelligent. They knew what the war was about, and they 
went, not for money or glory, but from a sense of duty. But this regiment, 
from the first clear through, had good leaders. Colonel McKnight was de- 
termined to make his regiment one of the best, and spared no pains to reach 
that point. Day by day, week after week, he drilled the men, he instructed 
the oflScers, until they got mad and swore like the troops in Flanders; but the 
colonel was right, and they found it so after a while. And then was there 
ever a better ofiicer than Colonel Craig? So cool, so brave, and yet so kind- 
hearted. He was stern to demand of his men the discharge of all duty, and 
yet he could sympathize with them in any trouble. I make special mention 



• Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 551 

of these two men because they had command of the regiment longer than any 
others. But they had worthy successors, and their equals in all soldierly 
qualities, in Greenawalt and Duff and Couser and Redic and Miller. 

When we look at the make-up of this regiment, in its officers and men, we 
can understand how it came to have such an enviable record all through the 
war. 

And now, comrades, a word in conclusion. A quarter of a century has 
passed away since the war. Then we were ife our prime; now we are grow- 
ing old. The hard tack would be harder for us now. That tender, juicy. 
Government beef, fattened (?) on pine leaves, wild garlic and past recollec- 
tions, would be a little too much for us now. Our eyes need glasses now. 
You could not go in with a rush and make the speed in a charge you could 
then ; nor could you make as good time getting out of the way if the other 
fellows were making the charge. Yes, we are growing old. "With the 
youngest of us life is at its noon ; but many of us stand where the shadows 
are lengthening; some of us are near sunset. We ought to be sober, earnest, 
thoughtful men. We have lived in the times and amid events that should 
make us so. It is natural we should look back and talk about the war and 
its results, but our faces must be turned, not backward, but forward. No 
party, no people, can afford to be content with past achievements. Rather 
these should serve as an inspiration to greater achievements in the future. 

"New occasions teach new duties." 

And when these new occasions come let us be as prompt to respond to the 
call of duty as ever we were in the past. 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

106TH REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

September 11, 1889 
ADDRESS OF BREVET-BRIGADIER-GENERAL JAMES C. LYNCH 

COMRADES: — The first member of the One hundred and sixth Regiment 
Pennsylvania Volunteers was enlisted into the service of the United 
States on August 8, 1861, and the last survivor was honorably mus- 
tered out on June 30, 1865. During this period 1,020 officers and men were 
borne on its rolls and fought in twenty-eight engagements, losing one hun- 
dred and ninety-four by death and having three hundred and ninety-seven 
wounded in action. Through this long and desperate struggle to preserve 
the Union of the States the One hundred and sixth was always ready to 
answer the call of duty, and whether facing death by disease before York- 



*Organized at Philadelfiliia from August It to October 31, 1S61, to serve three years. 
Co. K was transferred from the 67th Penna. to this regiment February 28, 1S62. The 
original members fescciit veterans) were mustered out September 10, 1S64, and the 
veterans and recruits consolidated into a batallion of three Cos. and retained in service 
until June 30, 1865, -when it was mustered out. 



552 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

town, or among the swamps of the Chickahominy ; toiling its wearisome way 
through the dust and heat of a long summer day's march ; freezing on the 
picket line knee deep in a winter night's snow drift, or presentin<; an 
adamantine line in the front of battle — wherever and whenever the regi- 
ment or any detachment of it was directed to go it went and stayed until 
ordei-ed by superior authority to leave. What regiment in the service can 
say more? From Ball's Bluff to Appomattox the One hundred and sixth 
Pennsylvania preserved its h»nor unstained — its escutcheon untarnished — 
never defeated — though sometimes unsuccessful, still holding its place in the 
line of battle until that fateful day of the 22d of June, 1864, when, assailed 
in front, flank and rear, it destroyed its colors to prevent their capture and 
died on the field. Much of this ''esprit ^de corps" was due to its first com- 
mander, Colonel Turner G. Morehead, a veteran of the Mexican war, whose 
soldierly qualities and steadfast bearing left their impress on the regiment. 

Company "A" served as company "S" of the First California Regiment 
until the rest of the "Blazers" reached Poolcsville when it took its proper 
place on the right of the One hundred and sixth. During its service with the 
California Regiment, Company A participated in the affair at Dranesville. 
The whole regiment was at Ball's Bluff, Charlestown, Yorktown, West 
Point, was heavily and successfully engaged at Fair Oaks — and in front of . 
Richmond furnished details for picket which had several sharp skii-mishes. 
The morning of June 20, 1862, found it under fire at Peach Orchard, but its 
first great and glorious service was at Savage Station on the afternoon of 
that day when, with the Seventy-second Pennsylvania on the right and the 
First Minnesota on its left, it held the center firmly and without wavering — 
standing without protection in the open field facing the woods through which 
the enemy poured its legions — the "Blazers" with the "Fire Zouaves" and 
the wood-choppers from Minnesota presented a veritable stone wall to the 
advancing foe. Four several times did Anderson hurl his troops upon u=! in- 
cluding that boastful brigade from South Carolina, which imagined that one 
South Carolinian could whip five Yankees — but the One hundred and sixth 
met their fierce attacks with a coolness and intrepidity that were unconijuer- 
able. Each discharge of a musket sent three buckshot and a bullet on their 
errand of death, and the orders of the oflieers to fire low were so faithfully 
obeyed that the dead and wounded were literally piled in rows in front of 
the One hundred and sixth. Not even on this dreadful field, or in the 
"Bloody Angle" at Spotsylvania, were the dead and wounded laid so close 
as at Savage Station, and yet it was many years after the war was closed 
before meager credit was awarded to the troops who so nobly held that pass ; 
the One hundred and sixth never had any newspaper correspondent to mag- 
nify its skirmishes into battles, and even the official reports of its officers 
were so modestly drawn and briefly composed that some of its most import- 
ant services are not recorded among the archives of the Nation, and futui'e 
historians will refuse to mention them as unverified. The Commissioners 
appointed by the State to act in conjunction with our regimental committee 
in erecting the monument we dedicate to day refused to accept the tes- 
timony of some of the actors in the fray, and declined to place on the monu- 
ment inscriptions crediting detachments of the One hundred and sixth with 
participating in two of the most important episodes of the battle of Gettys- 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 553 

burg. They s.'iy that Company B did not attack the Bliss House, giving us 
a reason that tlie official reports of the brigade and regimental commanders 
are silent on that subject. That Captain Ford and Lieutenant Irwin and the 
picket detail from companies C, D, E, F, G, H, I and K did not participate 
in the repulse of Pickett's charge, because the regimental commander did 
not say so in his official report — ignoring the fact that Lieutenant-Colonel 
Curry was on Cemetery Hill with the main body of the regiment and that the 
detachment was acting under direct orders of General Webb, the brigade 
commander, who did mention its services in his official reports. But we know 
that Lieutenant Smith of Company B, One hundred and sixth Pennsylvania, 
and four enlisted men were killed and seven men were wounded in the at- 
tack ou the Bliss House, and that Captaiu Ford and Lieutenant Irwin were 
wounded and over one-half of the men of their detail were killed or wounded 
in repulsing the charge of Picket on July 3, 1863. Their blood sank into 
the soil of yonder field and moistened the earth and stained the stones on this 
consecrated spot, and to-day rises up in mute witness of the valor of those 
from whose veins it was drawn and of their presence and services here. 

After nightfall on June 29, 1862, the regiment was withdrawn from the 
field of the glorious victory of Savage Station and moved across White Oak 
swamp to Gleudale or Frayser's Farm where, on the afternoon of the 30th, 
it reaped fresh laurels on that field, so disastrous to the reputation of the 
Pennsylvania Reserves, so honorable to that of the Philadelphia Brigade, 
each regiment of which moved steadily forward through the mass of fugitives 
and occupied the position assigned it— and held it against a victorious foe 
until ordered, during the night, to take the route to Malvern Hill, where, on 
July 1, the One hundred and sixth cheerfully and well performed the part 
assigned to it. 

After a period of inaction at Harrison's Landing, it marched down the 
Peninsula to Newport News and took steamer to Alexandria, where, after 
disembarking, it made one of the most severe marches of the war and with 
Sedgwick's Division arrived on the field of the Second Bull Run in time 
to take the place of McDowell's routed corps and hold the enemy in check 
until other disposition could be made to meet him and save Pope's army 
from further disaster. 

Again at Antietam, when near the Dunker Church, the Philadelphia Bri- 
gade attacked in flank and rear by an overwhelming force, the One hundred 
and sixth maintained its reputation for coolness and obedience, and when 
ordered to leave the field it marched off backward with its. face to the foe — 
sullenly retiring to new vantage ground, where it formed a line on which 
other troops were rallied. Well may the survivors of the One hundred and 
sixth be proud of its conduct on that fateful field. 

Again at Fredericksburg did the One hundred and sixth, and all of the 
Philadelphia Brigade, give renewed proof of its devotion to duty and that it 
did not know when it was whipped. Advanced to a position within one hun- 
dred and fifty yards of Marye's Heights it remained there all the afternoon 
suffering fearful loss until 11 o'clock at night when General Howard came 
and told the men that he supposed they had run away long before. It was 
your conduct there which gave him so much confidence in you at Gettys- 
burg. 



554 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

The One hiimlred and sixth passed with undiminished credit through the 
disastrous battle of Chancellorsville which led to the invasion of Pennsyl- 
vania by the army of General Lee, closely followed by the Army of the Po- 
tomac, first under General Hooker and then (after June 28) under General 
Meade. 

Toilsome marches, enlivened only by a few skirmishes, brought the One 
hundred and sixth Pennsylvania and the Philadelphia Brigade to Gettysburg, 
and when it was formed on this hallowed spot to do battle on Pennsylvania 
soil, for human rights and a nation's unity, it could proudly boast that it had 
never been beaten in action and brought with it a self-confidence which was 
a guerdon to its commanders, that the Philadelphia Brigade might die here 
but could not be driven by an assault on its front from the position given it 
to defend. 

I am requested by the Commission to speak only of the part taken by the 
One hundred and sixth Regiment in this battle, and therefore shall have 
nothing to say regarding the stubborn fighting of the First Corps on July 1, 
1863, which gained for it such a well-deserved reputation. 

The booming of the first gun on Reynolds' front found the One hundred 
and sixth at Taney town, thirteen miles away. Soon came the news of the 
death of that gallant son of Pennsylvania and that our own glorious Han- 
cock, the prince of soldiers, was hurrying to the front, leaving his corps to 
follow as rapidly as possible. That night the Philadelphia Brigade biv- 
ouacked on the slope of Little Round Top, and by a calm and peaceful sleep 
refreshed itself for the stirring of the next two days in which it was 
destined to bear such an important part. 

Early in the morning of July 2, the Philadelphia Brigade was marched 
some distance north on the Taneytown road and formed to the right of that 
road facing east towards Gulp's Hill, it being at that time General Meade's 
idea that Lee would attempt to turn his right flank and that the Second 
Corps should be sent to occupy Wolf's Hill . 

Between 6 and 7 o'clock in the morning. General Meade having ascer- 
tained that the country beyond Rock creek was not favorable for manceuver- 
ing, ordered the Second Corps to face the rear and move on to the ridge 
facing west, forming with Hays' Third Division on the right. Gibbon's 
Second Division in the center and Caldwell's First Division extending 
the line towards the Round Tops on the left. The Philadelphia Brigade 
was formed on this ground in position to defend that clump of trees which 
was destined to attain such prominence in the history of the Nation as to be 
called the "High Water Mark of the Rebellion." 

The Sixty-ninth Pennsylvania was in line of battle behind yonder fence, a 
position which it held with stubborn gallantry during the whole of the battle 
of the 2d and 3d of July. 

The Seventy-first, Seventy-second and One hundred and sixth were laid in 
reserve behind this crest ready to be moved where they should be most 
needed. 

At the time this formation was effected companies A and B of the One 
hundred and sixth Pennsylvania, under command of Captains John J. Sperry 
and James C. Lynch, and companies A and I of the Seventy-second Pennsyl- 
vania, under Captains Cook and Suplee, were thrown to the front beyond the 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 555 

Eramitsburg road to act as skirmishers and watch the movements of the 
enemy ; and shortly afterwards company B of the One hundred and sixth 
was, by personal direction of General Meade, entrusted with the important 
duty of ascertaining whether the enemy was in force on Seminary Ridge. 
The skirmish line of the enemy was strongly posted in a sunken road and 
barred the passage to the ridge, but the men of Company B obeyed the 
orders of their officers with such cheerful alacrity and displayed so much 
dash and elan in the advance that the opposing skirmish line was dislodged, 
the enemy's line of battle was disclosed, and having accomplished what was 
desired and shown the commanding general what he was most anxious to 
know, the company coolly retired to the position, as reserve to the skirmish 
line, from which it started ; and, strange to relate, did not lose a man either 
in advancing or retiring. 

In order to understand the importance of the movements of the One hun- 
dred and sixth on the afternoon of the 2d, it will be necessary to briefly refer 
to the fighting of that day on the left. 

General Lee's plan of attack was to move forward his right brigade to as- 
sail General Meade's left flank and each of his brigades was to follow the 
movement of the brigade on its right moving in echelon ; and in pursuance of 
this plan the whole of Hood's and McLaws' Divisions and Wright's Brigade 
of Anderson's Division, had in turn advanced and become heavily engaged. 
Wright's Georgians performed their duty well, crossing the Emmittiburg 
road, charging almost to the lines held by the Sixty-ninth Pennsylvania and 
capturing three guns of Brown's Battery which had been advanced to a 
rock knoll to the left and front of the Sixty-ninth Pennsylvania. 

At this juncture the One hundred and sixth Pennsylvania was moved for 
ward from behind the crest and ordered to attack the exposed left flank of 
Wright's Brigade. Promptly and well was the movement executed — a few 
will-directed volleys served to check Wright's advance — when Lieutenant- 
Colonel Curry ordered bayonets fixed and a charge to be made which sent 
the enemy in full retreat. The One hundred and sixth pursued them to the 
Eramitsburg road, capturing Colonel Gibson of the Forty-eighth Georgia 
and two hundred and fifty officers and men, all of whom surrendered to the 
One hundred and sixth Pennsylvania and were taken charge of by Captain 
Ford and Company I and sent to the rear ; the three guns of Brown's Bat- 
tery were also recaptured and sent to the rear. There being no connecting 
troops on the left of the One hundred and sixth and none on the right ex- 
cept a small detachment of the Eighty-second New York— Colonel Curry 
halted the regiment — deployed skirmishers to the front under Captain Ford, 
and on reporting the situation, and applying to General Webb for orders, 
he was directed to withdraw the regiment, which he proceeded to do, leav- 
ing Captain Ford and Lieutenant Irwin and a detail of fifty men on the 
skirmish line. Ten minutes later came a cry for help from General Howard 
whose Eleventh Corps was hard pressed and whose infantry had given way 
leaving the gunners to engage in a hand-to-hand fight with rammers and 
hand-spikes against the infantry of Ewell. The One hundred and sixth ar- 
rived just in the nick of time and Avas placed in position by General Howard 
himself who rode along the line speaking to the men and expressing his con- 
fidence in them and that he now considered his position secure. Turning to 



556 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

his chief of artillery he yaid "Major, your batteries can be withdrawn when 
the regiment runs away." He had seen the One hundred and sixth at An- 
tietam and Fredericksburg and knew its steadfast quality. What more 
flattering encomium could he have bestowed? 

The main body of the regiment remained with the Eleventh Corps until 
the morning of July 5, when it rejoined the brigade. 

But while eight companies of the regiment were rendering such valuable 
service in checking Wright's charge the other two companies were perform- 
ing one equally as important in preventing the advance of Posey's Brigade 
which according to General Lee's order, should have moved forward imme- 
diately after Wright's and whose charge in pursuance of Lee's plan would 
have taken the One hundred and sixth in flank and prevented the capture of 
the Forty-eighth Georgia. 

I have said that Company A of the One hundred and sixth was deployed 
as skirmishers with Company B in support. 

The right of Company A connected with the skirmish line of the Third 
Division Second Corps consisting of the First Delaware, the greater 
part of which occupied the Bliss house and barn which were on the line 
of Posey's advance. As Posey came forward he drove out the First Dela- 
ware, which retired except one company commanded by Captain Sparks, 
who gallantly held his ground to the left of the Bliss house and fought 
with the skirmishers of the Philadelphia Brigade. But the fire from the 
Bliss house and barn when occupied by Posey's Mississippians became 
vei'y destructive to Company A of the One hundred and sixth, and Lieu- 
tenants Swartz and Casey, being both wounded, the company began to 
give way. At this juncture Company B of the One hundred and sixth 
was ordered to charge and take the Bliss house. The attempt was gal- 
lantly made and was at first unsuccessful, but General Hays sent out 
four companies of the Twelfth New Jersey under Captain Jobes who joined 
Company B of the One hundred and sixth in another charge which re- 
sulted in the capture of the Bliss house and barn and over one hundred 
prisoners. The result of this comparatively small affair was that Posey's 
Brigade made no further advance and therefore Mahone's Brigade on 
its left did not move, apd the attack as planned by General Lee was virtu- 
ally suspended. What might have been the result if the movement in 
echelon had been kept up, God only can tell. One thing is certain, Carroll's 
Brigade of the Third Division and the Seventy-first and One hundred and 
sixth Pennsylvania of the Philadelphia Brigade could not have been spared 
to rescue Howard . 

Some doubt having been expressed about the part taken by Company B 
of the One hundred and sixth in the assault on the Bliss buildings, I 
here state that the matter was fully investigated on the occasion of the 
dedication of the Twelfth New Jersey monument, and that Company B 
was given full credit by Captain Jobes' command for its participation with 
them in the charge, and Major William E. Potter, the orator of the day, 
made a feeling and complimentary allusion to it. 

On the morning of July 3, 1863, the main body of the One hundred and 
sixth Pennsylvania was on Cemetery Hill under Lieutenant-Colonel Curry, 
but Captain Ford and his detail of fifty men remained on picket in front 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 557 

of the Philadelphia Brigade and companies A and B were in reserve to the 
rear of this crest, making altogether two-fifth of the regiment which par- 
ticipated in the repulse of Pickett's charge. 

The Sixty-ninth Pennsylvania still occupied its position of the day before, 
but, as its ranks had been depleted by killed and wounded and by a detail 
for picket, two companies from the left of the Seventy-first were brought 
forward and placed on the right of the Sixty-ninth. The Seventy-first 
Pennsylvania (except said two companies) was placed behind yonder stone 
wall, forming a connection with the left of the Third Division, Second 
Army Corps. 

The Seventy-second Pennsylvania was kept in reserve to the rear <jf the 
crest . 

During the morning the picket detail of the Sixty-ninth made a most 
gallant charge, driving back the enemy's skirmishers and regaining the 
position occupied by the brigade skirmish line on the preceding day. About 
L o'clock General Lee opened one hundred and thirty-eight guns upon the 
position occupied by the Philadelphia Brigade and an hour or more later 
advanced a force of infantrj' which is conceded by Colonel Long, military 
secretary to General Lee, in his life of that commander, to have numbered 
15,000 men, the command of which was entrusted to Major-General George 
E. Pickett, an officer of high reputation — trusted by his officers and idolized 
by his soldiers. 

When formed for the charge, the front of the attacking lines was over 
a mile long, the center being held by Pickett's splendid division, supported 
on the flanks and rear by Pender's, Pettigrew's and three brigades of An- 
derson's Divisions. The objective point of attack was that historic clump 
of trees which, as seen from the Confederate lines, rose prominently from 
th^ rear of the position held by the Sixty-ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, 
and as the rebel lines came forward they seemed to shorten and converge 
towards the center until, after passing the Emmitsburg road, they formed 
a mass covering a front no greater than that of the Philadelphia Brigade. 
Each gray-coated veteran seemed bent on reaching that clump of trees 
as though to pluck therefrom a leaf as an evidence to his commander that 
his orders had been obeyed. 

It is folly to contend that any one regiment or brigade is entitled to 
the sole credit of repulsing this determined effort made by fifteen thou- 
sand gallant veteran soldiers, flushed with the victories of Fredericksburg 
and Chancellorsville and of the previous two days, and having confidence 
in themselves and faith in their leaders. 

The infantry engaged on the Union side consisted of seven brigades, of 
which five had already suffered heavy losses on the preceding day. The 
Philadelphia Brigade with about eight hundred men in line held the center, 
supported by Hays' Division of three small brigades on its right, and 
Hall's Harrow's and Stannard's brigades on its left — not over eight thou- 
sand men all told. There was no second line. The Seventy-second Penn- 
sylvania, two companies of the One hundred and sixth Pennsylvania, Nine- 
teenth Massachusetts and Forty-second New York, were the only troops of 
Gibbon's Division in reserve. They were supporting the batteries of 
Gushing, Rorty and Brown. 



558 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

It is not my purpose to tire you by a description of the artillery fire or 
of Pickett's charge. You have frequently heard them portrayed in more 
graphic language than is at my command, but I cannot refrain from credit- 
ing the skirmish line composed of details from the Sixty-ninth, Seventy- 
second and One hundred and sixth regiments with holding its ground with 
a tenacity which caused many of the onlookers to blame its officers for 
needlessly sacrificing men's lives. They but carried out the instructions 
of General Webb to their commander. Captain James C. Lynch, in contest- 
ing every inch of ground and holding on to the Emmitsburg road as long as 
possible. The men obeyed orders and when impossible to longer retard 
the enemy's advance they hastened to rejoin their several regiments and 
fought in the line of battle. 

Steadfast and faithful — the name of each of that gallant band, whether 
from the Green Isle of Erin, or "native and to the manor born" deserves 
to be registered on fame's enduring tablet. 

Captain Ford and his detail formed on the left of companies A and B 
in rear of the crest. 

JNIeanwhile the enemy had advanced to the fence occupied by the Sixty- 
ninth and left of the Seventy-first, and, passing to the right of the latter, 
had taken it in flank and captured or forced back the right of the Sixty- 
ninth and two connecting companies of the Seventy-first. General -^rm- 
istead, with hat on sword, leaps the fence followed by six color-bearers 
with their flags and about one hundred and fifty to two hundred men. 
At this juncture General Webb calls on his reserve (the Seventy-second 
and the detachment of the One hundred and sixth) and leads them forward 
in person to close the gap in the line through which Armistead and his 
followers are pouring. Glorious leader! His handsome, manly form tow- 
ered for a moment a central figure between the two. lines, as with sword 
in one hand and hat in the other his order of "forward to the wall !" rang 
out cheerily and strong above the noise of battle. If he should fall, 
Gettysburg is lost. Wounded, he still keeps his feet. His indomitable 
spirit is communicated to and inspires the men of the Seventy-second and 
One hundred and sixth. They sweep forward to the fence over Armistead's 
prostrate body — treading under foot the rebel standards, whose bearers 
have fallen beside their leader — the thousands who have reached the fence 
throw down their arms, and Gettysburg is won! 

Captains Sperry and Ford fell almost at the moment the One hundred 
and sixth reached the crest, and the men dropped like ten-pins before the 
bowler, but there was no wavering among the survivors, and after the 
action General Webb praised the remnant of the One hundred and sixth 
in no stinted terms for their promptness and gallantry. 

Colonel Hampton S. Thomas informs me that when the fighting was 
the fierciest he was directed to take a squadron of cavalry from Meade's 
headquarters to the rear of Webb's Brigade to drive up the stragglers. 
The commanding officer on returning reported that there were no stragglers 
to drive up and that his cavalry could not live there. All of the able men 
of the Philadelphia Brigade were in the line of battle determined to conquer 
or die there. None but the wounded retired behind this crest while the 
fight was on. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 559 

It had been claimed that the Nineteenth Massachusetts passed through 
the lines of the Philadelphia Brigade, and Devereaux ingeniously asked 
how his command could capture colors unless by doing so. When the One 
hundred and sixth and Seventy-second charged forward to the fence, six 
color-bearers who had crossed that fence lay dead or disabled with their 
flags on the ground beside them. There was still at the fence an armed 
enemy, flaunting other flags in our faces. Our duty was to conquer that 
foe, and no brave man would at that moment have stayed his onward 
course to pick up a flag. I stopped on one which doubtless was "cap- 
tured" by some one who followed me and who now enjoys the medal 
which was granted by Congress to him whose name was turned in with the 
trophy. 

The reveille roll-call of July 4, found but eight men present for duty with 
Company B and Company C, and Captain Ford's detail had suffered almost 
as heavily. 

Twelve of that gallant band should never again answer the roll-call 
of life's duties — they had joined that numerous army which sleeps in un- 
marked graves south of the Potomac, "in memoriam" of whom we here 
to-day dedicate this bronze and granite shaft. And oh! my friends, when 
the mighty tocsin of war, with its terrible vibrations echoed and re-echoed 
through the length and breadth of this mighty land, the roll-call* found 
many brave young hearts wildly beating, fairly bursting with a soldier's 
love of fame or a boy's longing for adventure, while in the home roll-call 
there was one missing. Did you ever pause to think of this — life's roll- 
call? From the first feeble cry of infancy, the roll-call answered by mother 
love, to the day when the bright uniform was donned — whether of the blue 
or gray — with the gorgeous glittering of epaulettes and bright encircling 
saber sash, or the plainer garb of the private — and the soldier fledgling 
answered in high spirits with all his manly pride, anticipating the day, 
when, risen from the ranks, the roll-call should sound his name in a h.'gher 
note. Ah! but the home-nest roll-call where the mother sat in dread 
expectation, not knowing what moment would sound for her the roll-call 
of sorrow, and, saddest of all, when only "missing" told its horrible tale, 
enveloping her heart with its bewildering questioning uncertainty. The 
roll-call of duty, the roll-call of sorrow, the roll-call of fame, the roll-call 
of honor — life from the cradle to the grave is one succession of roll-calls. 
The one we are here answering to-day is the most sacred honor to the 
dead — unknown. The very word itself, conveys a world of pathos. It 
is for them first we answer the roll-call of honor ! and our comrades, the 
madcaps whose joyous spirits made us forget the pangs of hunger, the 
hardships of camp life. The ne'er-do-wells, whose blundering forgetfulness 
enlivened the frugal meal, the tender, thoughtful ones always ready with 
the helping hand, and we go down into the dark aisles of memory's cata- 
combs to find their names lovingly engraven, and even bright, despite the 
mist of years, as when we sat side by side around the camp fire, under the 
stars or, in the darker pages of the soldier's record, we stood shoulder to 
shoulder, and they whom we honor to-day heard the last dread reveille, 
death's roll-call, with no pitying hand to soothe its terrors, no tender words 



560 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

to comfort its gloom, all alone to pass into the dark shadows of the mystical 
unseen . 

Methinks from out the mist which encircled Spotsylvania's heights, 
emerges the stahvart form of Curry, his eagle eye burning with the fire 
of unquenched patriotism, and as he steps to the front of his old command, 
his voice rings sharp and clear as he answers, here! Ah, colonel, the boys 
well know you are present with us, sharing our glory as you ever did our 
toils and dangers, the bravest among the brave, your name shall be lovingly 
and proudly spoken until the last member of the One hundred and sixth shall 
answer death's roll-call. 

And following the gallant Curry come the shades of Pleis, and Sperry, 
and Swartz, and Hickman, and Smith, and James, and Sloanaker, and 
Hickok, and Gage, and Townsend, and Clark, and Breitenbach, and Rice, 
and Ford, and Wessels, and Frost, and the rest of the all too numerous 
band of our dead heroes. To them, the known and loved, we answer the 
roll-call of memory's loving tribute. To the living — all welcome; those who 
have shared the perils of "all this gorgeous panoply of war," whether in 
the garb of the victorious blue or chastened gray. The dawn and twilight's 
tints mingled into a day so terrible ; but the slumberous night of peace 
came and brought forgetfulness. So we are here gathered, answering the 
roll-call of fraternity, faith, truth and honor. Ah! and here, both among 
the living and the dead, what heroes are enrolled on fame's enduring tablet. 
How many who never left the ranks, yet whose chivalrous deeds are oft- 
times rehearsed where old comrades gather, and, like the unknown dead, 
the unrecorded heroes, have found well-burnished niches, consecrated by 
grateful tears, in the dim recesses of memory's halls. Sacred to valor; 
'tis to these we will first pay tribute. The brilliant pages of history, re- 
cording the known heroes, are a nation's pride that such men sprang 
from her soil. Their names, not only from the page of history, but from 
the pure white marble, emblem of purest patriotism, that love consecrated 
to her dead, bask in the warm sunlight, slumber in the calm moonlight, or 
if the heavens shed their pitying tears, it too wears the insignia of woe. 
The very sod is consecrated. Its memories of those dark days that made 
a nation's history, enrolled its heroes, blended in awful terror and mad 
havoc the blue and gray, yet stands out now in grateful contrast, and we 
feel 

" 'Tis best it never backward turns, 
Till love its sweetest lesson learns." 

And we have learned the lesson. The chasm from that Dies irae has been 
bridged by yearly links; from the steely one of partisan bitterness, they 
have merged brighter and brighter with each succeeding year, till now 
we forge this golden one, binding the living and the dead; in loving memory 
we consecrate this tomb on sod already consecrated. It is true, that here, 
to day, only those wearing the blue garb of victory are commemorated, but 
none the less do we offer tribute to the gallant gray. 

"Her generous troops 
Whose pay was glory." 

and whose achievements made history of which every American may well 
be proud. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 561 

The terrible desolation aud devastation of those years that 
"Let loose the dogs of war." 

on their beautiful cities and verdant valleys, yet bear the sad fruits of 
poverty, inseparable and unrecovered from. In the years that form the 
connecting links, loving prosperity rears its stately marble effigies. Loving 
poverty kneels with prayerful soul and plants pure white flowers whose 
perfume, like incense, rises in mute supplication. Yet how generously they 
have answered the roll-call and joined hands in this our "In Memoriam." 
Throbbing hearts realize that even in every unknown grave, "Somebody's 
darling lies buried," aud death's roll-call sounded in no measured cadence, 
but gathered in its insatiate greed 

■ "The tenderest and fairest, 

The best and the dearest." 

Its answerings, it seems, even the recording angel would stay his hand 
and weep such tears as blot out forever the horrible reckonings. 

"Time is indeed a precious boon, 

But with the boon a tasic is given. 
The heart must learn Its duty well, 
To man on earth, to God in heaven. 

Answering this roll-call, we discharge a sacred duty to those on whom 
"Fame's meteor beam," glanced but to slay in its electric power, laying 
low in manhood's prime the brave one whose soul was filled with high 
aspirations aud mighty courage. Yet, how many think you fell with the 
mute question of his own heart stilled forever: Will I live or die through 
this? Aye, dead to home, to mother, to those who loved him; but living 
in his country's records, living here in our memory, and in this vast bivouac 
of the dead, we consecrate this our monument, iirst, to the unknown dead, 
then to the known, ilayhap, in the long ago, it was he who shared the 
pleasures of our childhood, the boyish struggles of our school days, the 
hardships of camp life, the dangers in the day of battle. When the dread 
emissary of death sped on its cruel mission, mercifully sparing us, but 
laying low the old friend, the cheering companion, whose talks of home 
so often had consoled and brightened the tedium of dark days and home 
longings. And so, my friends, the soldier's roll-call not only enters into 
his life, but into that of each and every one. And while, for our com- 
rades, whose light of life went down in the very dawn of manly pride, 
high hopes and youthful ambition, death's roll-call ended a career perhaps 
in mercy; this, the last roll-call, still triumphs in its blighting thunderings, 
its eternal vibrations from the very throne of God himself is still as insati- 
able as in the days of battle array. Others, we may, in our frail humanity, 
seek to evade; but this call in its mightly equalization, its scorn of rank, its 
contempt of power, aye, comes, 

"And our hearts though stout and brave, 
Still like muffled drums are boating 
Funeral marches to the grave." 



5G2 Pennsylvania at Qettysbury. 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

107™ REGIMENT INFx\NTRY* 

September 11, 1889 
ADDRESS OF BREVET BRIGADIER-GENERAL T. F. McOOY 

AFTER the battle of Fredericksburg, the One hundred and seventh 
established its winter camp near Belle Plain, where it spent the 
winter of 1862-3. On April 28, and until May 6, the regiment was 
engaged in the movement against Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville ; 
and on June 12, broke camp and took the line of march in pursuit of Lee's 
army, then on its great movement to invade the North. 

It must be regarded as a striking providence that brought the two great 
armies of the war face to face on Pennsylvania soil. All accomplished 
too in accordance with the acknowledged principles of strategy that govern 
the movements of great armies in active war. The one starting from Fred- 
ericksburg, south of the Rappahannock, describing a grand circle of perhaps 
two hundred miles, the other from near the same point north of that 
river, making in its march an inner circle of less extent, and in its skilful 
movements shielding and protecting the capitol of the National Govern- 
ment and city of Washington, the possession of which was the principal 
objective point of the enemy. 

After more than one year's hardest service in the States of Maryland and 
Virginia, and honorably participating in the battles of Cedar Mountain, 
Rappahannock Station, Second Bull Run, Chantilly, South Mountain, An- 
tietam, Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville; after hard fighting and great 
exposure, the regiment found itself comfortably in camp on the 30th day 
of June, 1863, a few miles north of Emmitsburg, and in the full possession 
and enjoyment of the patriotic enthusiasm inspired by being upon Penn- 
sylvania soU, the beloved old Keystone State of the great American Union, 
anxious to unite shoulder to shoulder with their fellow soldiers in driving 
the invader from her borders. This was known and accepted as a mighty 
undertaking .but was to be accomplished regardless of hazard or sacrifice. 

The One hundred and seventh Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteers was the 
only Pennsylvania regiment in the First Brigade, Second Division, First 
Army Corps, commanded respectively by Generals Paul, Robinson and 
Reynolds. At this time, however. General Reynolds was in command of 
the left wing of the Army of the Potomac, composed of the First, Third 
and Eleventh corps, and General Doubleday of the Third Division, by virtue 
of his rank, was in command of the corps, in the advance in the movement 
upon Gettysburg. The other regiments of the brigade were the Ninety- 
fourth and One hundred and fourth New York, Thirteenth Massachui?etts 
and Sixteenth Maine. 



'Organized at Harrisburg from February 20 to March 8, 1862, to serve three years. On 
the expiration of its term of service the original members (except veterans) were 
mustorod our and the organization composed of veterans and recruits retained in service 
until July lo, 1865, when i^ was mustered out. 








JULY I. TilE REGIMENT FOUGHT HERE 
3MIP.M.UNTIL THE CORPS RETIRED ANO' 
•HEN TOOK POSITION ON THE LEFT Of 
■METERY HILL. (NTHE EVENING Of THf 
^J MOVED TO THE LEFTTOSUFPORTTHt 
JECOND CORPS AND AFTER THE REPULSE CI 
THE ENEMV fiETURHEO TO FOKMER POSITIO'" 
ON THE 30 KOVEOStVERHLTIMESTOKL 
"■.NFORCl OIFFESENT PSRTS OFTHEUKE. 




Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 563 

Havius: been greatly worn down by the long march of twenty-six miles in 
the mud and rain of the previous day, it wns fortunate that the regiment 
was not required to march more than n few miles on the 30th, as the 
movement of the corps only extended to JNIarsh creek, and this brought it 
to within four miles of Gettysburg. 

Many obscure and unknown places were made famous and historic by 
the movements and battles of these grear armies. No imagination had 
even conceived that the wreaths of immortality were hanging over, and 
about to drop .through the smoke of bloody battle upon the heretofore 
very peaceful community and quiet town of Gettysburg. The storm and rain 
from which the soldiers suffered in their recent march, had now passed away, 
and the heavens were clear and bright. The sun, the moon and the stars 
in their time and order looked down in all their beauty and glory, upon 
the rich foliage, the green fields, the peaceful homes, and the grand scenery 
of this region of the State, making a picture of beauty, prosperity and 
happine-s's, well calculated to delight the eye, and make an indelible im- 
pression upon the mind and heart of the soldier. Although upon the 
margin of the great field of conflict, of which they were more or less con- 
scious,' the tired soldiers rested well, slept soundly, and opened their eyes 
upon the new day, refreshed and reinvigorated for the discharge of its great 
duties. 

Alas ! to many of the gallant men who waked up on that morning of July 
1, it was to them that the last bivouac, the last camp and march this side the 
eternal camping ground beyond the river of death. In a few hours their 
life blood had reddened the green sward, having in the faithful discharge 
of the soldier's sacred duty, sacrificed their lives in defense of the homes 
and firesides of their native State, and for the preservation of the Govern- 
ment and the Union transmitted to us by the fathers of the Republic. 

Here we are on this 1st day of July, A. D. 1863, and the sun well up 
in the heavens, and to this time not one shot had been fired from either 
army. The darkest hour is just before daylight breaks. Though si- 
lence reigned supreme, terriWe war and battle could be sniffed from every 
passing breeze. 

General Meade, in anticipation of battle, although many miles in the 
rear, appreciating the condition of things at the front, issued a circular 
to the commanding officers, in these stirring words: 

The commjinding general requests that previous to the engagement soon expected 
with the enemy, corjj.s and all other commanding officers, will address their troops, ex- 
plaining to tho.m briefly the immense issues involved in the struggle. The enemy are 
on our soil, the whole country now looks anxiously to this army to deliver it from 
the pre^ience of the foe; our failure to do so will leave us' no such welcome as the 
BTC^elling of millions of hearts with pride and joy at our success would give to every 
soldier of this army. Houses, firesides and domestic altars are involved. The army has 
fought well heretofore — it is believed that it will fight more desperately and bravely 
than ever if it is addressed in fitting terms. Corps commanders are authorized to order 
the instant death of any soldier who fails in his duty at this hour. 

General Reynolds spent the night of the 30th at Marsh creek, within 
the lines of his own beloved First Corps, and was astir early in the morn- 
ing of July 1. On the 30th, Buford, the gallant and skilful cavalry com- 
mander, had passed through Gettysburg with two of his brigades of cavr.lry, 
and was in position one mile and a half west of the town. Reynolds, sup- 



564 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

posing that Buford would soon be attacked by the advancing foe, ordered 
Wadsworth's Division and Hall's Maine Battery in the direction of Gettys- 
burg, and directed Doubleday to bring up his own, and Robinson's Division, 
close upon the rear of Wadsworth. He then mounted his horse and rode 
rapidly with his staff to the front. But few of his brave troops ever saw 
him again alive as he fell before these last divisions reached the battle 
line. 

There is a period of time when every battle must have a beginning, and 
usually it is in a simple and small way. Sometimes a shell from a distant 
battery, a single shot from a sharpshooter, or a shot from the advancing 
skirmish line. It is recorded that the enemy began the battle by a single 
shot a little before 10 a. m., from their skirmish line. Three single shots 
followed quickly from the Union side from the cavalry line of skirmishers, 
our infantry being yet in the background. These were the sparks that pre- 
cede the great conflagration. Then very soon followed a general discharge 
of musketry along the skirmish lines on both sides. Thus opened the great 
sanguinary and world-renowned battle of Gettysburg. 

The infantry columns of both armies in the meantime were rapidly 
coming into line of battle and approaching the range of small arms. It 
seems to be well authenticated that the enemy received the first infantry 
fire from the Fifty-sixth Pennsylvania, commanded by Colonel Hofmann, 
he deliberately giving the command, ready, aim, fire! This sudden regi- 
mental broadside is said to have been of deadly effect upon the enemy's 
line in their front. The battle thickens and blood flows more freely. The 
conflict widens and extends by the columns of infantry deploying to the 
right and left as they approached the battle line. 

While these things were occurring the One hundred and seventh was 
approaching on the Emmitsburg pike, not yet within sound of small arms, 
but the puffs of white smoke could be seen from the several batteries 
hotly engaged and the regiment was now marching to the increasing sound 
of artillery as battery after battery came up to good range on either side. 
This served to quicken the soldier's pulse, warm his blood and electrify his 
mortal frame with the excitement and fever of battle. 

To have gone through the streets of Gettysburg would have increased 
the length of the march, and time was of great importance. On arriving 
at a point a half mile south of the town, the head of the column struck 
across the fields direct for the front and the raging battle, then rapidly 
growing in volume and intensity. 

The regiment, with the brigade, was halted at the Seminary, and, with 
the division, was for a time held in reserve. While here General Robinson 
put his division in line of battle in rear of the Seminary, being on the 
right of the Chambersburg pike, and extending north to or near the Mum- 
masburg road, and gave orders to throw up barricades. These defenses 
were said to have served a good purpose two or three hours after when 
it became necessary for the line to fall back. 

At this time the battle had increased in fierceness, the enemy greatly 
outnumbering the Union troops. Reynolds had fallen two hours before 
this, and hundreds of our brave men were lying dead and wounded upon 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 565 

the extended field of battle. It was a busy time with the litter bearers, 
the ambulance corps and the surgeons. 

It was not long that Robinson's Division was allowed to remain in its 
position at the Seminarj-. It was now ordered to move promptly by a 
flank further to the right. It was only in this movement, surprising as 
it may appear, that the necessary preparation for battle of loading the 
muskets was done — an order for that essentially important matter hr.ving 
been omitted until now. No evil consequences resulted however. When 
Paul's Brigade had passed over the railroad cut, and when the One hun- 
dred and seventh had reached the foot of the hill at the open part be- 
tween the woods on the right and left, the order by the left flank was given, 
throwing the brigade into line of battle. It had long been under the ar- 
tillery fire, but now it was the rattle of musketry that quickened the life 
blood of the soldier. The column charged up the hill in the face of the 
enemy, securing the position contested for, when large numbers threw down 
their arms and yielded themselves prisoners of war. The One hundred 
and seventh here gained the stone wall that the enemy fought for so 
desperately to regain, and failed in their object. 

The enemy's line of battle, being renewed by fresh troops, was now 
formed in the fields beyond from which came a very severe fire, and Paul's 
Brigade was induced to make another charge over the fields, but was 
quickly charged in turn and driven back with great loss to the stone 
fence. "Here it was," says an oflicer wounded in the battle, "where our 
regiment made the fight, and a good one it was. We had a clear view of 
all that was going on in our front and right, and to our right rear we could 
see all the movements of the Eleventh Corps and the enemy pushing them 
back. Had the regiment remained in this position it would have been 
better, but some excited fellows on our right pushed over the wall, and 
a charge was made, our regiment joining. They were severely punished 
and forced back and held the old line until ordered back." "The time," 
says this officer, "when we got under infantry fire was 1 o'clock p. m., and 
left the field about 4 p. m. The brigade went into action with the Thir- 
teenth Massachusetts and One hundred and fourth New York on our right 
and the Sixteenth Maine and Ninety-fourth New York on our left." 

For several hours the battle continued to rage. The sound of artillery 
and mu.sketry was continuous and terrific. The enemy exhibited an un- 
yielding tenacity and determination to force the Union lines, not withstand- 
ing their great losses in killed and wounded. Soon after 3 o'clock it 
became evident that the thinned lines of the First Corps could not keep 
up the fight much longer with the enemy's constantly increasing force, 
but no orders came to fall back, and the battle continued to rage. The over- 
whelming numbers of the enemy were now seen to be advancing upon and 
turning the right and left of the Ufiion line. This was unendurable., and 
being fully realized, the necessary line of duty and safety was plain, and 
the result was that about 4 o'clock p. m., what was left of the First Corps 
was rapidly marching through the streets of Gettysburg, to take up the 
new position already marked out on Cemetery Hill. 

Many striking and interesting incidents occured during the sanguinary 
struggle of the regiment around and about the stone fence, now marked 
or 



566 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

for posterity by the erection of this granite monument by the Common- 
wealth of Pennsylvania, known only to the soldiers who fought and charged 
and re-charged over this now sacred field, not a few of whom reddened 
it with their blood. Gallant deeds were numerous by ofiicers and men. 
Discrimination cannot in justice be made where all were heroes. Cor- 
poral Thomas Breash of Company C, in a charge gallantly bearing the 
•regimental flag, was shot down, when immediately Coporal G. A. Mc- 
Connelly of Company H took the standard in the thickest of the fight 
and speedily met with the same fate. Another raised the battle-torn em- 
blem/ and it continued to be the rallying point in all the subsequent move- 
ments. Our gallant division commander. General John C. Robinson, with 
his staff, appeared on the line of the regiment, and finding many of the 
soldiers running out of cartri<3ges, engaged in supplying them from the 
cartridge boxes of the dead and the wounded soldiers on the field. One most 
gallant boy, bravest of the brave, now an honored citizen, said to the writer 
that he had received three cartridges from the general's own hand, and 
as the battle was hot and fierce, he under the circumstances could not do 
otherwise than quickly present them to the enemy. In the midst of the 
battle General Paul, our brigade commander, received a terrible wound in 
the face, destroying his eyesight, and was taken from the field. General 
Coulter, colonel of the old veteran "Eleventh," succeeded General Paul, 
bringing his own regiment with him from Baxter's Brigade. Those ofiicers 
whose fortune it was to command the regiment in the three days of this 
great battle, thanks to a kind Providence, yet survive and can testify, 
and have officially testified to its gallantry and faithfulness. Lieutenant- 
Colonel J. MacThomson, in command on the first day, says in his very 
brief official report, that "we went into the fight at about 1 o'clock in the 
afternoon with two hundred and thirty men and twenty-five officers, the 
men loading as they walked, and were in action about two hours, and cap- 
tured more prisoners than the regiment numbered. I regret to report the 
loss of a large number of most excellent soldiers. The casualties, as far 
as ascertained, were lieutenant-colonel slightly. Major H. J. Shaefer se- 
verely wounded. Three commissioned officers known to be wounded and 
six missing. Eleven enlisted men killed, forty-eight wounded and ninety- 
three missing." And closes his report with these words of high commenda- 
tion, "men could not have fought better and I am gratified to say that not 
a single exhibition of cowardice was observed during the whole engage- 
ment." 

Captain E. D. Roath, being in command on the morning of July 2, in 
his official report, gives the further movements of the regiment in the 
great battle. 

After falling back through the streets of Gettysburg to the left of Cemetery Hill, we 
threw up strong breastworks, which we occupied unt;i next morning, being July 2. 
During the fovenoou we were relieved by the Third Division of the Second Corps, and 
taken a few hundred yards in the rear to support a battery, and remained there until 
about 6:30 o'clock in the afternoon, when we were marched to the left towards Round 
Top, under a heavy and effective fire, to assist in driving the enemy back in the famous 
charge of the second day of the battle. After the charge we marched back to near the 
cemetery, and were ordered to lay in rear of a stone fence, being a protection from the 
enemy's sharpsliooters in our front. On July 3, at 4:30 o'clock in the morning, we were 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 567 

posted In reav of Cemetery Hill, where we reiiuiined until 1:30 o'clock in the afternoon, 
at which time the enemy opened upon us with a heavy and furious artillery fire. Our 
division 'was moved to the right of Cemetery Hill, and came under two direct fires of 
the enemy's sharpshooters and one battery. The artillery became terrific. This pre- 
ceded and was preparatory to Pickett's famous charge. At this crisis our services were 
required to support the batteries, and the regiment was marched with others along the 
crest or brow of the hill in rear of the batteries exposed to this artillery fire from the 
enemy's batteries, the atmosphere appearing to be full of deadly missiles. After per- 
forn\ing our duty here, the regiment was marched with the division to the left of Cem- 
etery Hill to participate in the struggle that resulted, crowning our arms with the 
glorious victoiy achieved that day. At this time the regiment was reduced more than 
one-half. The day was very hot and the men suffered. Three of the men were carried 
Insensible from the field from tliis cause. After resting a few hours we sent out a line 
of skirmishers to the front, and threw up breastworks, July 4, we lay all day in this 
position, and did some skirmishing with the enemy's sharpshooters. 

In closing his report. Captain Roath says: 

The officer--, and the men of the regiment displayed great gallantry and determina- 
tion throughout all the engagements of the previous days, and are entitled to the praise 
and gratitude of a free and loyal people. 

At the close of these several days of combat it was found that in addi- 
tion to the officers already mentioned. Captain Gish, Lieutenants Wil- 
liams, Focht, Wentz, Hemphill, and Huff were wounded. Captain Temple- 
ton and Lieutenants Carman, Norris, Mooney, Venai and Myers and ninety- 
three enlisted men were taken prisoners. 

This beautiful monument unveiled before you to-day, is intended as a 
tribute to your gallantry and faithfulness, planted upon the very ground 
where your fierce and bloody struggle took place — and when all have passed 
away from this world of war and strife and rejoined the many comrades 
that have gone before, it will remain an official recognition and acknowledge- 
ment, and appreciation, of the people of your native State, for your sreat 
and noble services to the Commonwealth and the Nation. 

My comrades, in the limited view entertained at that time this great 
battle and victory should have terminated the rebellion, and given you the 
happy privilege of returning to your homes in peace, but, strange to say, 
it only served to mark the tidal wave of the terribly raging strife and storm 
of battle. Nearly three-quarters of a century ago the then existing war 
of continental Europe was ended by the battle and victory of Waterloo. 
The much greater battle of Gettysburg only served to turn a point in the 
war of the American rebellion. 

It has been eloquently said that, "This battlefield was the center and 
focus of the civil war. Here was the crowning moment of the whole 
struggle. Here the tide of rebellion was rolled back and the doom of the 
Confederacy was sealed. Here was settled the fate of defeat for one side 
and of victory for the other." 

However this may have been, and without affirmation or denial of these 
well-worded thoughts, the war continued to rage all the same as it did 
after Antietam, Fredericksburg, Shiloh and Chancellorsville and other 
battles, south, east and west, even to a greater degree of intensity. It 
was Greek meeting Greek more than ever, and no thoughts entertained of 
sheathing the sword. The war indeed was but half over and you were 
destined to pass through that which was to follow with the same gallantry 
and devotion to the end. The war must go on. Many thousands of victims 
were yet to be offered upon the altar of this country. "Five hundred thou- 



568 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

sand more, Father Abraham," was the war ery- The great American 
Union was the price — the stake was hanging in the wage of battle. We knew 
then, but realize more fully to-day, that it was worth the sacrifice what- 
ever it might be. Regardless of hundreds of millions of treasure and rivers 
of blood, the war did go on. The old flag of the Union was destined to 
wave victorious over other great and historic fields. In their short sighted- 
ness at that time the army and the loyal people too would have rejoiced 
to terminate the war at this period, but in taking a retrospect of the past 
we clearly see that this was not possible, nor would it have been just or 
wise. It was fully realized by the loyal statesmen of that day, that it was 
not possible to have secured the objects involved in the struggle. The 
Government and the Union could not have been preserved at this staae of 
the contest, and without this the great sacrifices of blood and treasure would 
have been practically useless and vain. The progress of civilization would 
have been stayed. The evident designs of Providence would have been 
thwarted. The history of the greatest rebellion on earth would have been 
incomplete. Greai. contending armies were in the field north and south, 
east and west. The name, fame and glory of Grant, Sherman and 
Sheridan were yet to culminate in grand and magnificent achievements. No, 
no! the war could not end here. The Wilderness was to be passed through, 
with its jungles, its gloom and slaughter, and bloody ways. The mighty 
struggles of Spotsylvania and Cold Harbor, with the long wearisome and 
eventful siege of Petersburg, the battles of the Weldon Railroad, Hatcher's 
Run and the Five Forks ; Sheridan's brilliant achievements in the Shenan- 
doah, and Sherman's victories and grand march to the sea, with scores 
of other fights and battles, on the land and upon the sea, were necessary 
to the complete subjugation of the foe, and ending of the great rebellion, 
and before the white flag appeared upon the field of Appomattox Court 
House, where final defeat overtook the enemy and triumphant and lasting 
victory crowned our arms, preserving the Government and the Union, 
thus vindicating the violated and cherished laws and principles embodied 
in the Republic, and in all its beauty and glory, from the Atlantic to the 
Pacific, from the lakes to the gulf, from the Aroostook to the Rio Grande, 

"Tlio old flag flies ami rules again." 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

IO9TH REGBTENT INFANTRY* 

September 11, 1880 

ADDRESS OF MAJOR MOSES VEALE 

UPON the first call of the President for three months' troops, Henry 
J. Stainrook answered the call and served as captain for the full 
term in the Twenty-second Regiment, and immediately upon his re- 
turn to Philadelphia, offered his services for three years or during the v/ar. 

*Organize(l at Pliiladelpliia fiom ilarcli to May, 1862, to serve tliree years. It was con- 
solidated with the 111th Penna., March 31, 1865. 



Pennsylvania at Gctfyshurg. 569 

His services were accepted, he was commissioned as colonel, and au- 
thorized to raise the One hundred and ninth Regiment Pennsylvania In- 
fantry Volunteers— Curtin Light Guards — so called in honor of the patriotic 
and gallant War Governor of Pennsylvania. 

December 20, 1861, the regiment was mustered into the United States 
service, and from then imtil May 9, 1862, was drilled and disciplined for 
the field, and on this date received marching orders, arriving in Washington 
May 10, 1862. From this date until May 24, 1862, continued drilling 
and discipline was maintained ; and when the ofiicer detailed by the War 
Department to inspect the troops encamped around Washington, for the 
purpose of selecting those who were found to exhibit sufficient drill, dis- 
cipline and soldierly bearing to be forwarded to the front, the One hundred 
and ninth was immediately selected and ordered to march. 

While in Washington the regiment was in the Military District of 
Washington, Department of the Rappahannock. On May 25, 1862, the 
regiment arrived at Harper's Ferry, Virginia, and was assigned to Cooper's 
Brigade, United States forces at Harper's Ferry. 

May 27, an advance was made by Cooper's Brigade, consisting of One 
hundred and ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, One hundred and eleventh 
Pennsylvania Volunteers, Sixtieth New York Infantry, Seventy-eighth 
New York Infantry, One hundred and second New York Infantry, Third 
Maryland Infantry and Second District of Columbia Infantry, as far as 
Bolivar Heights; and on the afternoon of May 29 Stonewall Jackson's 
Division appeared in front, advancing from Charlestown. 

General Cooper opened artillery fire upon the advancing column, and 
the enemy replied, maintaining for the period of one hour or more an 
artillery duel, the infantry remaining simply in support; this was the 
baptism of fire of the One hundred and ninth, the first sound of the enemy's 
guns, but a sound which the regiment was destined to hear without inter- 
mission until the close of the war. 

On June 2, 1862, Cooper's Brigade was assigned to Sigel's Division, De- 
partment of the Shenandoah. After marching through Charlestown, Win- 
chester, Kernstown and Middletown to Cedar creek, it was assigned to 
First Brigade (General Cooper), Second Division (General Sigel), Second 
Corps (General Banks) , Army of Virginia (General Pope) . 

July 5, 1862, the division marched to Front Royal, through Manassas 
Gap to Warrenton, Virginia, and from there to Little Washington, where 
the regiment encamped until August 1, 1862, when orders were received 
to march, and they crossed Hazel river, through Culpepor Court House 
to Cedar or Slaughter Mountain, where, on August 9, 1862, the battle of 
Cedar or Slaughter Mountain was fought. 

In this battle the One hundred and ninth was not to be a mere spectator 
or held in support of artillery, but was to engage in the real and fierce 
contest of war. The battle was opened by the artillery and continued for 
nearly an hour, when the infantry were ordered to advance; and, although 
the first battle in which the One hundred and ninth had engaged, the 
order was obeyed by the men and most of the officers with the spirit and 
determination of veterans. During the artillery firing. Colonel Staiurook 



570 Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 

was severely wounded, but refused to leave the field, and remained in com- 
mand during the entire battle. The advance was made, and the order given 
"fire at will ;" the First Brigade, at this time commanded by General Prince, 
was on the left of the line, the division being commanded by General Augur 
and the corps by General Banks. The One hiindred and ninth was flanked 
on the right by the Third Maryland. The advance was commenced late 
in the afternoon, the entire brigade in line, with steady march and deliber- 
ate firing ; but soon as the enemy was brought into closer contact and 
the sheet of flame from their line of musketry became continuous, the firing 
of our troops became more rapid, and the smoke and flame of the two lines 
became commingled. At this time the One hundred and ninth was without 
adjutant or field officer, except the wounded colonel, but there was no 
wavering; the line was steady and the firing continuous. Soon darkness 
commenced to settle upon the field, and yet the One hundred and ninth 
maintained its ground. 

At this time the regiment received an enfilading fire from the right, and 
the colonel, supposing the fire was from the regiment of our own brigade on 
the right, which in the darkness and smoke had misdirected its fire, dis- 
patched an officer with orders to stop this enfilading, when it was dis- 
covered that the entire corps on our right, including the regiments of our 
brigade had fallen back and that the One hundred and ninth was flanked 
on the right by the enemy and unsupported on the left. The colonel gave 
the order to fall back, and all obeyed the order except a few— more rash 
than wise — who attempted to advance with the colors ; some of these paid 
the penalty of serving in Libby prison. 

This battle was to the regiment like fire to silver — it purged it of its 
dross, and purified the remainder by the blood of their dead and wounded 
comrades and their own tried courage and patriotism. 

After Cedar or Slaughter Mountain, Bank's Corps fell back to Cul- 
peper and from there was, with the Army of Virginia, withdrawn behind 
the Rappahannock; and the One hundred and ninth, with other com- 
mands, for a week or ten days were engaged in guarding the fords of 
the river, repulsing all attempts of the enemy to cross. They were then 
withdrawn across Bull Run, forming the rear-guard of the army, destroying 
an immense amount of ammunition, burning wagon-trains and cars. The 
regiment crossed Bull Run September 1, 1862. 

During the battle of Antietam, the regim'ent was not actually engaged, 
but its commanding officer. Colonel Stainrook, was. in <'ommand of the 
brigade, which — with the exception of the One hundred and ninth— was 
actively and severely engaged. Colonel Stainrook displayed, as he did in 
every battle, great bravery and skill. 

After the battle of Antietam, the One hundred and ninth crossed the 
Potomac into Virginia, passing through Frederick, Maryland, across South 
Mountain and Antietam, and from thence to Loudoun Heights. 

Under the reorganization of the Army of the Potomac in September, the 
regiment was assigned to Second Brigade, Second Division, Twelfth Army 
Corps, and remained in Second Brigade until November, 1862, when it 
was assigned to Third Brigade, Second Division, Twelfth Army Corps, and 
stationed on Bolivar Heights, and remained here until December 10, 1862. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 571 

Recei'ring orders to join the urmy at Fredericksburg, passing through 
Leesburg and Fairfax to Dumfries, Virginia, where, after a slight sliir- 
mish, they returned to Fairfax Station, on Orange and Alexandria railroad, 
the One hundred and ninth went into camp until January 17, 1863, when 
orders were received to join the army at Fredericksburg, making the march 
to Aquia creek over roads which would ordinarily be considered almost im- 
passable ; the artillery and wagons sinking to the hubs, and horses and mules 
sometimes almost lost to view in their struggles to draw the wagons and 
artillery through the mud. 

In AprU the regiment was assigned to Second Brigade, and on April 27, 
1863, all leaves of absence and furloughs were recalled, and orders were 
given to march. This line of march was commenced with haversacks and 
five days rations, sixty rounds of ammunition, and knapsacks, overcoats 
and extra shoes ; but the second day's march found overcoats and extra 
shoes lining the roads or piled in great heaps, hundreds of them being 
burned to prevent them from falling into the hands of the enemy. After 
a tiresome march, the Twelfth Army Corps crossed the Rappahannock 
at Kelly's Ford and the Rapidan at Germanna Ford. On April 30, 1863, 
the One hundred and ninth Regiment had a skirmish with the pickets of 
Anderson's Division, Army of Northern Virginia. The Rappahannock and 
Rapidan were crossed before the enemy was aware of the army's presence. 

On May 1, 1863, the Second Brigade, Second Division, Twelfth Army 
Corps, consisted of Twenty-ninth, One hundred and ninth. One hundred and 
eleventh. One hundred and twenty-fourth, and One hundred and twenty- 
fifth Pennsylvania Infantry Volunteers. This brigade was placed on the 
right of the plank road, and ordered to make trenches and erect breast- 
works which they did with the aid of bayonets and tin plates. The One 
hundred and ninth had but one field ofiicer, the colonel. On the right of the 
One hundred and ninth was the One hundred and eleventh Pennsylvania 
Volunteers, and on the left the One hundred and twenty-fourth and One 
hundred and twenty-fifth Pennsylvania Volunteers. 

On the morning of May 1 the brigade advanced beyond its line about 
one and a quarter miles, and formed in line of battle with the Third Bri- 
gade on the left, and the left of the Third Brigade resting on the plank 
road. In this line of battle they advanced through a dense thicket and 
undergrowth for almost one mile, when the brigade passed into an open 
plain and received a brisk fire from a battery of the enemy posted in a 
wood. This attack was replied to by Knap's Battery. The Brigade crossed 
over the open space to a road which passed to and around the right of the 
army line, upon ground considerably elevated above the line of temporary 
breastworks. General Kane, commanding the brigade, desired making a 
stand, deeming the position an important one, commanding the right of 
the line, and consequently communicated his views to General Geary, 
but orders were received by him to cover with his command the withdrawal 
of the division. So well convinced was General Kane of the importance 
of this position, and so anxious was he to give the enemy battle, that 
three distinct orders were received before he retired. The enemy, seeing 
our troops falling back, poured into them rapid volleys of infantry and 
artillery shot, but Kane's Brigade covered the withdrawal in a most mas- 



572 Pennsylva?iia at Oettysburg. 

terly manner, and — in the words of General Geary's report — "prevented the 
least confusion in the ranks in a movement always requiring great tact and 
delicacy, united with firmness of will and purpose." Our line having been 
regained, a line of skirmishers was sent out under command of Colonel 
Stainrook, of the One hundred and ninth, supported by the Second Brigade, 
with orders to ascertain the exact whereabouts of the enemy and check their 
advance. This brave and skilful soldier most admirably handled this line, 
and advanced until superior numbers drove him in, but not until he in- 
flicted upon them severe loss. 

During the night the earthworks were strengthened, and — owing to the 
scarcity of intrenching tools — sabre-bayonets, tin plates, pieces of boards, 
and in some cases the bare hands were used to scrape up the dirt. On the 
morning of the 2d indications of a movement of the enemy were visible, 
which continued during the day. About 5 p. m. the One hundred and 
ninth with the Second Brigade was ordered to proceed forward on the 
right of the plank road, and after advancing about two hundred yards the 
enemy's fire was drawn and our advance was made through the woods 
under a severe and galling fire. When a distance of some five hundred 
yards was reached, the enemy was discovered drawn up in line of battle 
in heavy force, but in a short time orders were received to fall back within 
the lines, which was done in good order. 

About 6 p. m., May 2, Stonewall Jackson, taking advantage of the un- 
guarded position of the right, passed along the road and, falling upon the 
Eleventh Corps, drove them in a demoralized condition from their position, 
the enemy being checked only by the Twelfth Corps standing firm. During 
the night heavy and continuous firing was kept up along the front, and about 
8 o'clock a. m.. May 3, the One hundred and ninth, with Second Brigade, 
was in the trenches, exposed to a terribly raking and enfilading fire of the 
enemy's artillery. At the same time attacks were made upon front and 
flank by his infantry. The one hundred and ninth, with Second Brigade, 
being in such an exposed position, received this fire with most damaging ef- 
fect. Some of the solid shot from the artillery literally scooped the line of 
the One hundred and ninth, but they maintained their position without wav- 
ering until ordered to march out by the left flank, which they did with the 
steady march of troops on parade, and this without a field ofiicer. After 
marching some distance to the rear, the One hundred and ninth was ordered 
to again take position in the front, and, countermarching, they took po- 
sition with the Second Brigade in a line of defense in a woods to the north 
of the Chancellorsville House. 

On May 4 orders were received to change position to the vicinity of the 
headquarters of the general commanding the corps, and to erect and 
strengthen breastworks. During this and the following day, this position 
was occupied. On the morning of May 6 the One hundred and ninth crossed 
the Rappahannock at United States Ford, and the battle of Chancellori^ville 
passed into history. This was one of the most brilliantly conceived cam- 
paigns of the \var, and executed to a certain point with consummate skill, 
and yet a most impotent conclusion. During this fight, while Colonel Stain- 
rook, commanding the One hundred and ninth, was speaking words of en- 
couragement to his men and exposing himself to great danger, a ball from 



Pennsylvania at Oettyshurg. 573 

the enemy entered his breast and with a few words he fell dead. A braver 
soldier never lived ; a truer pati'iot never breathed . Had he lived until ex- 
perience developed his natural ability, there would have been few if any 
more skilled officers In the army. General Geary, in an official report, says, 
"I notice the death of Colonel Stainrook, of the One hundred and ninth, who 
gallantly fell while encouraging his men. A brave and accomplished officer, 
his loss is one over which I cannot but express the convictions of my most 
heartfelt regret." Truth compels me to record an incident of this battle 
which occurred at the time of the colonel's death. The senior captain, with 
a number of th(> men, including the then color-sergeant, ran ignobly from 
the field, taking with them the colors of the regiment. They did not reappear 
upon the field until the fighting was over, when the captain was compelled 
through shame to resign, and the color-sergeant received condign punishment 
from his comrades, suffered disgrace, and had the colors taken from him. 
This does not disgrace the regiment nor the brave fellows who were not 
participants in it; but it only makes their deeds the brighter. 

The One hundred and ninth returned to Aquia creek and there remained 
until General Lee commenced his offensive-defensive campaign by invnding 
Pennsylvania . 

On June 13, 1863, commenced the pursuit of the army under General Lee, 
and on June 30 the advance of the Twelfth Array Corps encountered a por- 
tion of Lee's army near Littlestown, Pa., resulting in a skirmish. June 30 
the One hundred and ninth encamped at Littlestown, and on the morning 
of July 1 marched to the Two Taverns, and halted until about 2.30 p m. 
the same day, when General Geary, commanding the division, received 
orders to march. The One hundred and ninth was in the Second Brigade of 
Geary's Division, the brigade being in command of Colonel Cobham. 

On arriving within two miles of Gettysburg on the Baltimore turnpike, the 
One hundred and ninth with the Second Brigade was halted and remained 
until the morning of July 2, 1863. Although the One hundred and ninth 
was within supporting distance, it was not actively engaged in the battle of 
Gettysburg on July 1. 

In the history of the United States the first, second and third days of July, 
J863, will ever stand as pivotal days, and the battle of Gettysburg not only 
as a pivotal battle of the rebellion, but as having the most important bearing 
and influence upon humanity and the world's history. It is not excelled, if 
■-qualed, by any human event since the world's creation. Every event help- 
ing to make up the great historical event of the battle of Gettysburg is im- 
portant, and its mention is justifiable. 

General Geary, after placing his division on the line of march from the 
Two Taverns on the Baltimore turnpike, with two staff officers rode rapidly 
ahead towards Gettysburg, and arrived at Cemetery Hill, where stood Gen- 
eral Hancock in command of the troops then on the field, being the First and 
Eleventh Army Corps. General Geary dismounted .and saluted General 
Hancock. General Hancock said, "General, where are your troops?" and 
General Geary replied that two brigades of his division were then advancing 
on the Baltimore turnpike. General Hancock then said, "Do you see that 
•knoll or hill?" pointing to Little Round Top, "that is the key to this po- 
sition, and if we can gain position on it before the enemy, we can form a line 



574 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

and fight a battle, but if the enemy secures it first, we wUl be compelled to 
fall back about seven miles to Pipe creek. In the absence of General Slo- 
cum, I will order you to take possession of that hill." General Geary turned 
to one of his staff, an ofiicer of the One hundred and ninth, and gave orders 
to have the troops with one battery of artillery (Knap's) leave the turnpike, 
and double-auick diagonally across the fields and take the position. When 
Geary's troops arrived some of the enemy's cavalry were on the opposite 
side. The One hundred and forty-seventh Pennsylvania Volunteers and 
Fifth Ohio took position on Little Round Top, and the other regiments of the 
First and Third Brigades to their right, and to the left of the Eleventh 
Army Corps. About 5.30 a large body of infantry was seen advancing on the 
Emmitsburg road, and when nearly opposite the position of the One hun- 
dred and forty-seventh Pennsylvania and Fifth Ohio, went into bivouac. 
These troops were discovered to be General Sickles' Third Army Corps. 
This speedy formation of the left of the line to Little Round Top frustrated 
the enemy's design, which would, if successful, have proven disastrous to the 
entire position. 

This position was maintained until 7.30 a. m., on July 2, when Geueral 
Sickles, with Third Army Corps, relieved the First and Third Brigades of 
Second Division, Twelfth Army Corps. These brigades being relieved 
moved to the right of the First Army Corps, were they were joined by the 
One hundred and ninth with Second Brigade. The Third Brigade was 
formed in line, left resting on the right of First Army Corps, at nearly a 
right angle with First Army Corps, on a steep rock mount which was a con- 
tinuation of Cemetery Hill. The One hundred and ninth was formed with 
its left on the right of the Third Brigade, at an angle of about forty-five 
degrees forward, conforming its line to the crest of the ridge, and the One 
hundred and eleventh Pennsylvania on the right of the One hundred and 
ninth Pennsylvania. Breastworks were immediately thrown up along the 
entire line. Skirmishers were thrown out to the creek, where the enemy's 
pickets were encountered. 

During July 2 very little fighting was done on the right of the line, but 
about 4 p. m. the enemy opened a most fierce attack on the left and center 
of the line. Between 6.30 and 7 p. m. the One hundred and ninth with 
Second Brigade and First Brigade were ordered to the right across Rock 
creek, as was supposed for the purpose of reinforcing the left and center of 
the line which was so fiercely attacked ; but after marching a long distance 
to the right, and away from a short and direct line to the point needing re- 
inforcement, the One hundred and ninth with the First and Second Brigades 
were halted on the Baltimore turnpike, with the left of the line resting on 
Rock creek, and right on the turnpike. 

General Greene with the Third Brigade had been ordered to attenuate his 
line, so as to cover the entire Twelfth Corps front; the enemy, however, dis- 
covering the withdrawal of the First Division from the extreme right, and 
two brigades of the Second Division, made a most vigorous and furious at- 
tack upon General Greene ; his front and right were attacked before he had 
succeeded in occupying the Second Division entrenchments, and the enemy 
succeeded in occupying the entrenchments evacuated by the First Division. . 

The enemy seemed desperately determined to roll up General Greene's little 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg, 575 

brigade, and occupy the entire entrenchment of the Twelfth Army Corps, 
and thus secure the vantage-ground of the right of our army line. But Gen- 
eral Greene and his little command were equal to the occasion, and with the 
most determined courage and gallantry, during an incessant attack of two 
and a half hours from vastly superior numbers, repelled four separate and 
furious chai'gcs, without losing a foot of ground. 

The First and Eleventh Corps sent tJie gallant old general support The 
enemy, meeting this determined resistance, discontinued their attack about 
10 p. m., July 2. The One hundred and ninth with the Second and First 
Brigades had continued in position on the turnpike and Rock creek from 7.30 
until 9 p. m., when the One hundred and ninth with the Second Brigade was 
ordered to return to its original position. On entering the woods, and within 
two hundred yards of the breastworks, the One hundred and ninth and 
Second Brigade was met by a sharp fire. Without replying the brigade was 
withdrawn to the turnpike in the rear of, and past General Greene's right, 
where it was again met with a volley, showing conclusively that the enemy 
was occupying the entrenchments to the right of Greene. 

During General Greene's engagement with the enemy to meet the attack 
on his flank, the One hundred and thirty-seventh New Tork, which held the 
right of his brigade, changed front, forming a right angle to the rifle-pits, 
thus covering the right of the entire brigade. 

It being injudicious to attack the enemy in the night in their new position, 
the One hundred and thirty-seventh New York was relieved, and the Second 
Brigade was formed in double line at right angles with the Third Brigade, 
the One hundred and eleventh Pennsylvania taking position with its left 
resting on "the Third Brigade, and One hundred and ninth Pennsylvania 
ou the One hundred and eleventh Pennsylvania's right. 

Between the One hundred and ninth Pennsylvania and the One hundred 
and eleventh Pennsylvania and the enemy in their front, was a shallow 
ravine. Before daylight on the morning of July 3, the First Brigade was 
placed in position on the right of the One hundred and ninth Pennsylvania, 
and in extension of the line of One hundred and ninth and One hundred and 
eleventh, the brigade's right extending almost to the turnpike. General 
Geary, by a staff oflScer of the One hundred and ninth, reported the situation 
to General Slocum, and on July 3, between 1 and 2 o'clock a. m. had posted 
in position opposite the center of the line of the Twelfth Army Corps, and 
slightly to the right of the Second Division's right, so as to command the 
ravine formed by Rock creek, six twelve-pounder pieces of "F" Battery, 
Fourth United States Artillery, four twelve-pounder pieces "K" Battery, 
Fifth United States Artillery, and six guns of a Maryland Battery. Lock- 
wood's Brigade, composed of the First Eastern Shore Maryland Regiment, 
and the One hundred and fiftieth New York, was placed in a position to sup- 
port the artillery. About 3.30 a. m., July 3, the artillery opened from every 
gun a most furious fire, and continued without interruption between ten 
and fifteen minutes. At the same time the One hundred and ninth Penn- 
sylvania, with infantry of the Second and Third Brigades, made a most 
furious attack. 

This tremendous assault of infantry and artillery at first seemed to stag- 



576 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

ger the enemy, but they soon rallied and with three divisions, Johnston's, 
Rodes' and Early's, charged heavily on our front and right, yelling in their 
peculiar style. They were met at every point by the unswerving line and 
deadly fire of the One hundred and ninth and the Second and Third Brigades, 
these troops not yielding an inch of ground ; line after line of the enemy 
broke under the steady fire, but the pressing masses from behind rushed for- 
ward to take their places. After some twenty minutes to half hour the 
artillery again opened fire with shell, and continued rapidly without ceasing 
for fifteen minutes, the infantry firing continuing. At about 5 a. m., the 
One hundred and forty-seventh Pennsylvania on the right of the One hun- 
dred and ninth Pennsylvania charged and carried a stone wall occupied by 
the enemy. About 8 a. ni. the enemy redoubled their efforts, massing all 
their forces with the intention of carrying the position at all hazards, so 
that they could take the Baltimore turnpike. General Slocum, fearing the 
overwhelming force of the enemy might prove too much for the Second Di- 
vision of the Twelfth Army Corps, secured reinforcements from the Sixth 
and First Army Corps. These reinforcements were not however called 
into active service, except a part of Shaler's Brigade. 

About 10.25 a. ra., two brigades of Johnson's Division having formed in 
column by regiments, charged upon the right occupied by the One hundi'ed 
and ninth and Second Brigade. General Geary, in an ofiicial report, says 
of the charge: 

They met the cletermined men of Kane's little brigade, which, though only six hun- 
dred and fifty strong, poured into them so continuous a fire that when within seventy 
paces, their columns wavered and soon broke to the rear. This was the last charge; 
as they fo'll b.nek our troops rushed forward, driving the rebels in confusion over the 
entrenchnKuts, and ending every attempt of the enemy to obtain possession of the right 
of thti line and the Baltimore turnpike. The enemy's loss was very severe, as nine 
hundred were buried by our troops in front of the line of the Second Division, Twelfth 
Army Cor))s. 

At 10.30 a. m., July 3, the One hundred and ninth was relieved and 
marched out, taking position near the Baltimore turnpike, where they re- 
mained until 10.30 p. m. They then returned to the position, on right of the 
Third Brigade, which they first occupied in the breastworks. General 
Geary in an official report, says of the Second Brigade, "It sustains the 
most excellent reputation as a high-toned brigade." They retained this po- 
sition in the breastworks until the morning of July 4, when it was dis- 
covered that the enemy had wihtdrawn and was retreating. 

On July 5, the entire army was in pursuit of General Lee, and after 
crossing South Mountain, on July 12 found him occupying a position on the 
heights of Marsh run in front of Williamsport. The Second Division, 
Twelfth Army Corps, of which the One hundred and ninth was a part, held 
the extreme left of our army line, which place was directly opposite the 
right of General Lee's army facing us in front of Williamsport. The Second 
Division, Twelfth Army Corps, took position about 12 o'clock m. on July 12, 
and pickets were ordered to be thrown out ; Captain Ralston of the One 
hundred and ninth was in command of the division picket-line. One of Gen- 
eral Geary's staff officers, an officer of the One hundred and ninth, requested 
the privilege of passing outside of the picket line on reconnaissance, and 
with one orderly passed on the road to the left of the line leading to Wil- 
liamsport. When a considerable distance inside of the enemy's vidette line. 



Pennsi/lvaiiia at (leiti/sibKrii. 577 

he called at a farm house not far from the road, and inquired whether any 
Confederates had been there, and was answered, yes, several officers had 
taken dinner there but a short time before, and that not far from the road 
a short distance further on, "a field was full of cannon." In this field the 
enemy had massed their artillery before crossing the river. Here was Gen- 
eral Lee with the swollen waters of the Potomac in his rear, and without 
means of crossing his artillery, pontoons having been swept away. And 
here defeat must cause the surrender of his entire army. The staff officer 
returned to division headquartei's, and reported what he had heard to Gen- 
eral Geary, and General Geary, accompanied by this staff oSicer, reported 
to General Slocum, commanding the Twelfth Army Corps. When General 
Slocum had heard the staff oflicer's statement he said "Geary, take your di- 
vision, make an advance and feel the enemy." As Geary was about to 
leave General Slocum's quarters to carry out this order, a staff officer from 
General Meade reported to General Slocum, with General Meade's compli- 
ments, that General Meade would hold a council of war. General Slocum 
then said to General Geary, "Don't make any movement until I return from 
General Meade." No advance was made until July 14, when General Lee 
had constructed a pontoon bridge of lumber collected from canal boats and 
the luins of wooden houses. The advance on July 14 was a failure, as the 
last of General Lee's army had crossed when we arrived at the river. 

After this the line of march was taken for Catlett's Station, Virginia, 
where the One hundred and ninth regiment arrived July 29, having marched 
from Gettysburg, since July 5, two hundred and four miles. The regiment 
remained at Catlett's Station until August 5, and from August 5 until Sep- 
tember 18 it was on duty along the Rapidau, and from September 18 until 
September 28 it was on duty near Brandy Station, Virginia. 

On September 28 the regiment was relieved from duty with the Army of 
the Potomac, and with the Twelfth Army Corps and Eleventh Army Corps, 
under General Hooker, ordered west to the relief of the army at Chatta- 
nooga, and reached Murfreesboro, Tennessee, October 6, and operated 
against Confederate cavalry from Nashville to jNIurfreesboro. During this 
time the Confederates held possession of the east bank of the Tennessee 
river from Chattanooga to below Kelley's Ferry, holding both Brown's Ferry 
and Kelley's Ferry, and preventing the furnishing of supplies to the jirmy 
at Chattanooga by the Tennessee river. To supply the army at Chatta- 
nooga was becoming diflScult and almost impossible, and the opening of the 
Tennessee river became a necessity. 

October 25, the regiment was ordered from Stevenson, Alabama, to the 
front. They arrived at Bridgeport, Alabama, October 27, crossing the Ten- 
nessee river, and struck the ^Memphis and Charleston railroad near Look- 
out Mountain. At about 5 o'clock on the afternoon of October 28, they 
camped in Wauhatchie Valley. The Eleventh Army Coi-ps encamped about 
three miles in advance, near Brown's Ferry. The troops encamped in 
Wauchatchie Valley, near Lookout Mountain, considered of the Twenty-ninth 
Pennsylvania Volunteers, One hundred and ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, 
One hundred and eleventh Pennsylvania Voluteers, Seventy-eighth New 
York Volunteers, One hundred and. thirty-seventh New York Volunteers, 



578 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

One hundred and forty-ninth New York Volunteers, and four guns of Knap's 
Battery. 

The Twenty -ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers was posted on picket. About 
11.30 p. m. the pickets were partly driven and the troops were at once 
placed in line. The One hundred and eleventh Pennsylvania Volunteers on 
the right, the One hundred and ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers on the left 
of the One hundred and eleventh, the One hundred and thirty-seventh New 
York on the left of the One hundred and ninth Pennsylvania Volunteers, and 
the Seventy-eighth New York on the left of the One hundred and thirty-sev- 
enth New York, and the four guns of Knap's Battery were placed in the 
rear of the One hundred and eleventh and One hundred and ninth on rising 
ground, so as to fire over the infantry and be supported. 

The firing on the picket at 11.30 proved to be a feint, and the troops lay 
upon their arms. At 11.45 p. m., on October 28, the enemy charged, firing 
with tremendous fury, driving in the pickets, and then commenced one of 
the most furious and important battles of the war. The Army of the Cum- 
berland was then on short rations, and supplies were impossible except by 
the Tennessee river. These fourteen hundred troops of the Second Division, 
Twelfth Army Corps, covered Kelley's Ferry. This must be maintained or 
the enemy would command the Tennessee river. From three to five thou- 
sand of Stonewall Jackson's old troops were thrown against us for the pur- 
pose of either capturing our little command, or annihilating it, and gaining 
possession of Kelley's Ferry. They poured into us three concentrated fires, 
from front and right and left flanks, but this little band of brave and tried 
Army of the Potomac troops fought with steady and determined desperation, 
not giving way a single foot. The One hundred and ninth fought without a 
field ofiicer, under the command of a captain, but every man realized the im- 
portance of the fight and his own individual importance, where so few were 
fighting against so many. 

From 12.30 to 3.30 o'clock, this desperate fight continued. At one time it 
did appear as though the enemy would gain the rear of our right and capture 
the guns of our battery, but by a most timely movement, one piece was 
thrown across the road on the right, which gave the enemy a raking fire and 
saved the flank. As the guns of the battery flashed the enemy would pour 
such a deadly fire into them that both commissioned officers were killed, 
twenty-four of the men out of forty-eight were killed or wounded, and thirty- 
seven of the forty-eight horses were killed. At the end of three hours the 
enemy retired, leaving in our hands one hundred and fifty-three killed, in- 
cluding six commissioned ofiicers and fifty-two wounded, including three 
oflicers, making the enemy's loss in killed and wounded, according to the 
statistics of most battlefields, about one thousand. In the fight the One 
hundred and ninth added another page of honor to its history, of which every 
man engaged in this battle might feel justly proud. General Geary, in an 
official report, says: 

The oiipmy jireciiiitately hurled their main body without skirmishers upon the left 
where the One hiindiod and thirty-seventh New Yorlc, the One hundred and ninth 
Pennsylvania, and the two left companies of the One hundred and eleventh Pennsyl- 
vania met them with intense and well-directed fire. And the actual fighting through- 
out the battle was sustained, in conjunction with the artillery, by the One hundred and 
thirty-sevtnth New York, the One liundred and ninth Pennsylvania, the One hundred 
and elaventli Pennsylvania and a portion of the Twenty-ninth Pennsylvania, number- 
ing eight hundred and fifty officers and men. 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 579 

General Geary further says of the conduct of One hundred and thirty- 
seventh New York, the One hundred and ninth Pennsylvania and One hun- 
dred and eleventh Pennsylvania, in sustaining the brunt of the battle: 

I cannot speak too highly, they acquitted themselves in a manner deserving all the 
comtnoudatioii that a commander cau bestow upon them, and which I take pleasure in 
mentiODiii;^ officially. 

Previous to the battle of Lookout Mountain, the Second Division, Twelfth 
Army Corps, maintained a line extending from the confluence of Lookout 
creek and the Tennessee river on the left to the top of Racoon Mountain on 
the right. 

On the morning of November 24, 1863, the One hundred and ninth Penn- 
sylvania and Seventy-eighth New York were placed on the right of these de- 
fenses, while the balance of the division was withdrawn to charge Lookout 
Mountain. Although the One hundred and ninth Pennsylvania was not 
actively engaged in the fight, its position in reserve was exceedingly import- 
ant, and the War Department authorized the battles of Lookout Mountain, 
Missionary Ridge and Ringgold inscribed upon the colors of the One hun- 
dred and ninth Pennsylvania Veteran Volunteers. These battles therefore 
become a part and parcel of the history of the One hundred and ninth 

About 4 o'clock on the morning of November 24, 1863, the Second Divi- 
sion, Twelfth Army Corps, with some other troops temporarily assigned, 
under the command of General Geary, crossed the railcoad at Wauhatchie 
Junction and marched to a point about two and one-half miles up Lookout 
creek, and here the entire command massed behind a hill which effectually 
secured it from view from the mountain. Throwing a bridge across the 
creek at this point, the skirmishers and picket-line crossed, surprised and 
captured the enemy's picket-line without firing ; forty-two pickets were cap- 
tured . 

Four pieces of light artillery, twelve-pounders, were placed on Bald Hill 
near the junction of the creek and river, and four pieces of artillery on a 
hill opposite Lookout Point and behind Bald Hill. Two pieces of twenty- 
pounder Parrotts were placed on the gap to the right and one section of 
howitzers commanded the approach to the lower bridge, and four pieces of 
Knap's Battery were posted on an eminence to the left of Kelley's Ferry 
road from which it commanded the sides of Lookout. 

About 8.30 o'clock, the entire column commenced to cross the bridge. The 
Second Brigade in advance moved rapidly up the hUl-slope by the right flank 
in a direct line from the crossing to the wall of the crest ; the Third Br'gade 
followed and joined the Second Brigade's left. General Whitaker's Brigade 
crossed, followed by First Brigade, Second Division, Twelfth Army Corps. 
The line of battle as formed, faced to the front, was Second Brigade with 
One hundred and eleventh and Twenty-ninth Pennsylvania on the right ; 
Third Brigade with four regiments in the center ; First Brigade on the left in 
echelon with Sixty-sixth Ohio and tliree companies of Fifth Ohio in reserve. 
This constituted the front, covering the slopes from the crest of the mound 
to Lookout creek. The Eighth Kentucky, Thirty-fifth Indiana, Ninety -ninth 
and Fortieth Ohio respectively, in order from the right of Whitaker's Bri- 
gade, formed, the second line in support, about three hundred and fifty 
yards to the rear of the front line, bis right resting opposite Second Bri- 



580 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

gade's center ; about one hundred yards in the rear of the supporting line 
were the Ninety-sixth Illinois and Fifty-first Ohio, also of Whitaker's Bri- 
gade. This formation and distance were maintained until the farthest 
point gained on the mountain. A heavy line of skirmishers had been ad- 
vanced and covered the entire front through the day's movements, and the 
flanks were kept so intact that the supporting line was perfectly secure, 
excepting from sharpshooters on the crest. 

About 9 o'clock the whole line moved forward, the right, held by the 
Twenty-ninth Pennsylvania, kept in close contact with the ragged precipice 
of the summit; the left was instructed to govern its movement by those of 
the front line on the right, the extreme left resting near the creek, the j»uide 
being the upper curvature of the mountain. The movement was quite 
rapid over the steep sides of the mountain which sloped at nearly an angle 
of forty-five degrees, breaking into nimierous successive ravines from fifty 
to a hundred feet in depth, overcome by clambering almost perpendicular 
ascents and descents. When the right and center had progressed about one 
mile and a quarter, the enemy's pickets were encountered and driven back 
upon their main advance body, a mile beyond a part of a series of fortifica- 
tions, rugged nature and artificial, occupied by a brigade of the enemy. 
With fixed bayonets our troops charged at double-quick over all obstruc- 
tions, regardless of the active work of the sharpshooters in the gorge.-? and 
from the crest and. the heavy musketry in front, and with wild enthusiasm 
made a sudden and vigorous assault. The Third brigade and the One 
hundred and eleventh Pennsylvania, closing in with the enemy, and the 
Twenty-ninth Pennsylvania on the right, hurled themselves upon their flank 
with furious effect. The enemy offered a sturdy bxit brief resistance, and 
soon yielded and threw down their arms. This was the first success in the 
charge upon Lookout Mountain. Many of the enemy were killed and 
wounded, and the balance of the brigade were taken prisoners, with small 
arms, camp equipage and four rebel flags captured by the One hundred and 
forty-ninth and Sixtieth New York regiments. The prisoners were sent to 
the rear to be disposed of by General Whitaker's command. 

The command, without halting upon the side of the victory, pressed eagerly 
forward in original formation. Many were the obstructions now surmou.nted 
at every step, ravines, precipices, immense boulders, abatis, slashings and 
carefully-constructed works. Keeping the right firm against the barrier of 
the mountain top, the right, having the shorter line, made more advance 
with less marching than the balance of the line. 

Before reaching the next line of the enemy, the right of the line en- 
countered the almost perpendicular pyramid of Lookout Point, the line be- 
ing obliqued to the right so as to keep the i-ock for the right to rest upon. 
This brought the line to the most elevated accessible point of the mountain, 
short of the most elevated peak. At this point a rebel regiment wa.s ob- 
served making a hasty descent through a pass from the westerly crest upon 
our flank. The Twenty-ninth Pennsylvania changed front to rear and suc- 
ceeded in capturing the entire rebel regiment and thus counteracted this 
flank movement of the enemy. At this time our artillery opened upon the 
enemy's fortifications, the missiles flying over our troops into their lines. 
The artilley ceased find the Third Brigade and left of the Second Brigade 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 581 

charged the fortifications, who offered a stout resistence, but the Third Bri- 
gade pressed thoin hotly while the right of the Second poured in its flanking 
fire with such vigor that the enemy sullenly fell back from work to work 
until they were driven from each strong lodgment. 

During this time the enemy opened with three pieces of light artillery from 
the crest and for twenty minutes made every effort to enfilade our lines, 
but their guns could not be sufficiently depressed to reach our ranks, and 
their missiles burst with trivial effect over the heads of the First Brigade, 
which, unseen by the enemy, was sweeping up the rough declivity just below 
the plateau. Being baffled with their artillery they hurled shell and hand 
grenades from the cliffs, but our lines moved so rapidly that they were 
mostly ineffective. Our lines still pressed on, pushing the enemy with such 
vigor that they could not recover, and their front wavered more and more 
each stand, until their falling back became a flight. 

This was about 12 o'clock noon. The Second Brigade advanced about 
eight hundred yards around the point so as to command the enemy's flank 
and protect our own. At this point the brigade passed the mountain side 
at almost a perpendicular angle, and when the brigade's right reached the 
desired point, their column was closed up, and with backs firm against the 
acclivity, presented a front toward Chattanooga creek. At the same time 
the Third Brigade charged through the Peach Orchard taking the works 
encircling it and driving the enemy from a stone wall parallel with our line. 
The One hundred and thirty-seventh and Sixtieth New York dashed through 
the yard of the "White House," where the enemy had two pieces of artillery 
in position, capturing them and their gunners, throwing the colors of the 
One hundred and thirty-seventh New York on the guns as token of capture. 

Our troops were fired with enthusiasm and on they went over the suc- 
cessive belts of ramparts inclosing the level area which the rebels reluctantly 
yielded. We had progressed about five hundred yards beyond the "White 
House" with our right, and in front of the mountain road, when the routed 
rebels rallied upon a large body of the enemy, three brigades being covered 
by the woods and rocks. Our men were imbued with irresistible ardor and 
vigorously engaged them. Whitaker's Brgiade was halted at the stone 
wall of the "White House" and several of the regiments were formed about 
two hundred yards to the rear and left of it. A part of one of his regi- 
ments moved up to the support of the left of the line but was soon with- 
drawn. The enemy made several charges and were as often driven back 
to their original line. While the Third Brigade combatted the massed forces 
in front, the Second Brigade opened on oblique fire on the enemy's flank 
which enfiladed their lines and made their situation untenable. The im- 
penetrable fog, which had for some time lingered above, now settled down 
upon and below the Third Brigade and it became impossible to direct fire 
upon the enemy unseen without endangering our own men ; the fog prevailed 
during the balance of the day. The left of our line was still striving for the 
old road leading from the mountain into Chattanooga Valley; when, at 12.30 
an order from General Hooker commanded a halt along the crest. 'We had 
gone already beyond the intended point. The ground occupied by our line 
was very abrupt. The Second Brigade flag floated from the highest noint 
yet gained on the 24th. The oflScers and men manifested an eagerness to 
38 



582 Pennsylvania at Crettyshurg. 



go forward. At about 1 o'clock the enemy made an assault in force upon 
our left, but our men stood firm and soon forced the enemy back to cover. 
From 2 o'clocl: p . m . , of the 24th , and during the afternoon , night and early 
morning of the 25th, the Second Division vras relieved at different times by 
Colonel Grose's Brigade, General Whitaker's Brigade and General Carlin's 
Brigade. During the night of the 24th and morning of the 25th but little fir- 
ing was done, but the men suffered considerably from cold. Before daylight 
of the 25th General Geary gave orders for small reconnoitering parties to 
gain the summit with ladders and plant the colors on top had the enemy 
evacuated. The colors of the Eighth Kentucky ascended on the eastern side 
of the ridge and the Twenty-ninth Pennsylvania on the western. They 
stood upon the summit about the same time, but the Eighth Kentucky having 
the shorter line was the first to unfurl the flag from the gigantic cliffs, but 
almost the same instant the Twenty-ninth Pennsylvania unfurled their 
flag and the "white star," the symbol of the division which carried Lookout 
Mountain. The enemy had evacuated, and from ten thousand throats burst 
forth the wildest shouts of patriotic enthusiasm. The victory was complete 
and without measure in its importance. 

At shortly after 10 o'clock on the morning of the 25th, pursuant to orders 
from General Hooker, the Second Division, preceded by Osterhaus' and 
Cruft's Division, marched down the mountain toward Mission Ridge, upon 
the left of which the rebel troops withdrawn from Lookout and Chattanooga 
Valley had been placed in position in extension of the entire rebel line. Our 
troops descended into Chattanooga Valley taking the rebel route. The 
enemy disputed the advance of the column with artillery for a short time, 
but was driven back and one of their guns captured. At about 3 o'clock in 
the afternoon our column turned to the left and followed the base of Mission 
Ridge. 

Osterhaus moved down the eastern base and Cruft was getting a foothold 
to sweep along the crest line, when our division advanced along the we.stern 
base with five batteries and parallel to the enemy's front and toward their 
right. The First and Second Brigades were pushed forward along the base 
and the Third Brigade in support of the artillery opened a battery on the 
enemy's flank and rear, compelling them to fall back ; at the same time con- 
tinuing a brisk artillery fire upon them. The division was then formed in 
column of brigades with the First Brigade in front and the Second Brigade 
in second line. They scaled the craggy sides of the ridge, moving obliquely 
to effect a junction with the right of General Palmer's Fourteenth Corps. 
The rebel retreat at this time had fairly started, and our effort was made 
to cut them off. The descent of the ridge was a difficult work, but was ac- 
complished in good order amid shouts and cheers. As our line of battle 
gained the summit Johnson's Division of the Fourteenth Corps attained the 
adjoining cliff on the left. At 6 p. m. our junction was complete and the left 
of the ridge was ours. 

The balance of the army was successful and the entire range was taken 
from the enemy. Pursuant to orders we descended to the western base of 
the ridge and bivouacked for the night in the enemy's winter quarters. Sev- 
eral hundred prisoners were taken. 

At 10 o'clock on the morning of the 26th, under order?! fropi Generftl 



Pennsylvania at Oettyshurg. 588 

Hooker, oui* division marched through Rossville •Gap, following the line of 
retreat of the left of the enemy's army on the road to Graysville. The main 
body of the enemy retreated rapidly. Our division having passed Pea Vine 
creek and Chickamauga swamp at 10 p. m. it was ascertained that the 
enemy had forces on Pigeon Hill. Osterchaus' advance commenced skir- 
mishing ; our First Brigade was hastily moved to the front, doubled on Os- 
terhaus' column, and formed in line at right angles with the Ringgold road. 
The Second Brigade was drawn up in line in an open field about three hun- 
dred yards to the rear. Skirmishers were immediately thrown to the front, 
scaled the hills and drove the rebel rear guard from the ridge. Our divi- 
sion was within four miles of Ringgold. We bivouacked for the night at 
the foot of Pigeon Hill. 

At daj'light on the 27th we marched from bivouac, in rear of Osterhaus' 
Division. At 8 o'clock we marched rapidly through the town of Ringgold 
under a musketry fire from the ridge beyond. A short distance beyond, the 
Western and Atlantic railroad ran through a gap in Taylor's Ridge, run- 
ning in the same general direction as Mission Ridge ; through this gap the 
whole of Bragg's retreating army had passed towards Dalton up to the time 
of our arrival, leaving one division in position on the ridge to dispute our 
passage. At 7.30, Osterhaus, in advance, had formed his line at the foot 
of the hill, and assaulted the ridge under severe fire from the enemy. About 
8 o'clock our First Brigade passed to the left to scale the mountain and if 
possible gain the summit, attack the enemy in flank and charge with. vigor 
along the ridge. The brigade was formed about three-quarters of a mile 
from the gap parallel with the railroad in two lines in echelon ; the Sixty- 
sixth Ohio and Twenty-eighth Pennsylvania in front, and the Seventh Ohio 
and One hundred and forty-seventh Pennsylvania one hundred yards in rear. 
The movements were made with rapidity, passing across a large open field 
to the foot of the ridge, under a severe fire from the summit. Tho two 
lines were here deployed into a single line of battle, throwing the Seventh 
Ohio and One hundred and forty-seventh Pennsylvania on the left. About 
five hundred feet above was the enemy pouring down a rapid deadly fire. 
The brigade steadily ascended the steep sides of the hill. Our fire was 
withheld until about half way up, when the whole line opened upon the 
enemy on the summit and pressed on. 

The Seventh Ohio on the right of the regiment on the extreme left was 
compelled to move through a ravine. The enemy massed at this point, and 
poured into this regiment a most deadly enfilading fire ; it received and re- 
turned it unflinchingly and pressed on until within twenty-five yards of the 
summit, but the enemy, strongly reinforced, was overpoweringly superior, 
with advantage of position. The regiment, having lost its gallant colonel, 
and twelve out of its thirteen officers and nearly one-half its men, was re- 
tired. The One hundred and forty-seventh Pennsylvania on the extreme 
left gained a position near the top, but both flanks of this regiment were 
endangered by the falling back of the Seventh Ohio. The Twenty-eighth 
Pennsylvania and Sixty-sixth Ohio, well protected on the right, held their 
ground about forty yards below the crest line, and engaged the enemy, but, 
owing to the overpowering strength of the enemy, they could not advance 
and were ordered to form on the line below. These brave troops had con- 



584 Fennsylvunia at Gettysburg. 

tended for two and one-half hours against overwhelming numbers and 
against the enemy in almost impregnable position. 

As soon as the First Brigade was moved to the rear and left, the Second 
Brigade was brought up and massed behind a large stone depot on the con- 
fines of the town, toward the ridge. The Third Brigade was halted in re- 
serve four hundred 3'ards in the rear in the main street of Ringgold. 

The Second Brigade had remained but a few minutes under shelter, when 
the enemy with artillery and musketry was pressing back some of Oster- 
haus' regiments on the right. The Second Brigade moved to his support 
on the double-quick, crossed the railroad under severe fire and took position 
in front on a mound to the left of the railroad and gap, facing the ridge. 
The advance of the enemy's line was checked and hurled back toward.-: the 
ridge . 

The Third Brigade was brought up as soon as the Second was sent to 
the relief of the right, and was disposed in column of regiments, en masse, 
behind the stone depot. 

The fight raged in front and at 10.40 a. m. Osterhauson the entire right 
was giving way. The Third Brigade was at once ordered to the right at 
double-quick. The troops in compact order swept over an open swampy space 
of nearly half a mile, while the enemy poured into them grape, canister and 
musketry. Arriving at the point of the right of the Second Brigade, the line 
was formed with One hundred and thirty-seventh New York on the left 
joining the Second Brigade on the right, and One hundred and forty-ninth 
New York on the right of the brigade. They at once engaged the enemy 
and compelled them to recoil, and soon to seek protection upon the ridge in 
the sides of the gap. About fifteen minutes after retii'ing, the enemy ad- 
vanced artillery to the edge of a belt of woods at the mouth of the gap with 
infantry support, and at the short range of one hundred yards commenced 
hurling shrapnel into our lines. A detachment of sharpshooters from the 
One hundred and forty-ninth New York succeeded in driving the enemy with 
the artillery from their position, after the enemy had sustained a consider- 
able loss. At about noon, one section of Knap's Pennsylvania Battery and 
one section of Landgraeber's howitzers, were placed in position on the right 
of the Third Brigade, and in front of the gap. They soon silenced the 
enemy's guns and drove back their infantry. At this same time one section 
of Knap's Battery opened from the line near our left upon the enemy which 
had massed in front of the First Brigade. At 1 o'clock Osterhaus scaled 
the mountain, and our Third Brigade pushed their skirmishers into the gap, 
the One hundred and forty-ninth New York capturing two flags. The enemy 
were driven back, and after five hours contest, the ridge was in our posses- 
sion. On the morning of December 1, the Second Division marched from 
Ringgold to their old encampment in Lookout Valley. For the distinguished 
and most gallant service of the Second Division, Twelfth Army Corps, of 
which the One hundred and ninth Pennsj'lvania was a part at the battle 
of Lookout Mountain, General Grant, who was then in command of the 
army at Chattanooga, ordered a special review of this division, at which all 
of the distinguished officers serving at this place under General Grant took 
part. This was a distinction granted to very few, if to any other, divisions 
during the war. 



Pennsylvania at Oettysburg. 585 

Shortly after this the One hundred and ninth marched from Wauhatchie 
Valley to Bridgeport, Alabama, and went into winter quarters. On January 
20, 1864, the regiment ro-cnlisted for three years, and thus, under the orders 
of the War Department, became a veteran regiment, and left Bridgeport for 
Philadelphia on thirty days' veteran furlough. 

On April 4, 1864, the regiment was brigaded with Twenty-seventh Penn- 
sylvania Volunteers, Seventy-third Pennsylvania Volunteers, One hundred 
and nineteenth New York Volunteers, One hundred and thirty-fourth New 
York Volunteers, One hundred and fifty-fourth New Y'ork Volunteers and 
Thirty-third New Jersey Volunteers, forming the Second Brigade, Second 
Division, Twentieth Army Corps. The regiment returned from veteran fur- 
lough and rejoined the division at Bridgeport, Alabama, on May 4, 1864, and 
on May 5 commenced Sherman's celebrated campaign against Atlanta, 
Georgia. On may 6 the regiment advanced with the division near Ringgold, 
Georgia, and on May 8 it was engaged at Rocky Face Ridge, Dug Gap, 
Georgia. The Second Division, Twentieth Army Corps, was ordered to 
make an attack at Dug Gap in order to divert the enemy from Buzzard's 
Roost to Dug Gap, to insure a successful assault by a large part of the 
army an Buzzard's Roost, the objective point being the turning of Dalton. 

Rocky Face Ridge extends for a long distance along a mountain range 
through which is Snake Creek Gap and Dug Gap ; the rocks are almost per- 
pendicular and very high; from the valley or tableland below to Dug Gap, 
the side of the mountain is quite steep and covered with timber, and the only 
road of approach to Dug Gap is a tortuous wagon road. Up this hill, and 
through this timber, was the Second Division ordered to charge, and assault 
Dug Gap, and most bravely was it done. 

To carry this gap by an assault was practically impossible, nor was it in- 
tended to be carried, but the charge was made with the same heroic deter- 
mination as though success was assured. The Second Division almost scaled 
these rocky-faced ridges in the enthusiasm of the charge. The charge re- 
sulted in securing the object intended, so that the One hundred and ninth 
Pennsylvania with the Second Division, Twentieth Army Corps, is entitled 
to the inscription of another victory on its banner. 

On May 12 the One hundred and ninth passed through Snake Creek Gap 
in an advance on Resaca, and on May 14 and 15 the battle of Resaca was 
fought . 

May 15, at 3 o'clock a. m., the One hundred and ninth Pennsylvania and 
Second Brigade, formed on the left and rear of the Third Brigade, which 
held the position on the extreme left flank of the army covering the Dalton 
road. At 7 a. m., a strong reconnoitering party of the Second Division was 
sent out and returned at 11 a . m . At this hour the division received orders 
to' move to the right about three-quarters of a mile and form a column of at- 
tack . 

This movement was made with the First Division of the Twentieth Corps. 
Owing to the nature of the ground and the small compass within which the 
entire army was to operate' in the first charge, the Second Division was 
formed in column of regiments. The Third Brigade was formed in advance, 
the Second Brigade following and the First Brigade last. The position oc- 
cupied by the enemy was one strongly intrenched on an irregular line of hills 



586 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

with spurs running in every direction. On most of the elevations the enemy 
had batteries protected by earthvrorks. The hills, steep and rough, were 
thickly wooded. 

Everything being in readiness the advance was ordered.- The Third Bri- 
gade crossed a ravine and a hill, swept by the enemy's artillery and mus- 
ketry fire, and drove the enemy from another hill, and, turning a little to 
the right, charged with ringing cheers for the capture of a battery, which, 
from a key position, was dealing death on every side. At the same time, 
on the Third Brigade's left, a portion of the Third Division, Twentieth 
Corps, was advancing for the same deadly prize. The advance of both com- 
mands reached the battery nearly together. 

The One hundred and eleventh Pennsylvania of the Third Brigade led, 
and forced its way until the men had their hands almost on the guns and 
their colors on the earthworks, from which part of the gunners had been 
driven, and many killed. This earthwork was a sunken one at the crest 
of the hill opening towards its rear. Twenty yards in its rear was a line 
of strong breastworks, from which a deadly fire poured around and into the 
battery, rendering it impossible for men to live there. Colonel Cobham, 
commanding the One hundred and eleventh Regiment, formed his little line, 
now augmented by the One hundred and ninth and other portions of the bri- 
gade, within fifteen yards of the guns, where, by the formation of the ground, 
his men were sheltered from the terrible fire. Three regiments were formed 
in this line, and the balance of the Second Brigade posted in reserve. Three 
regiments of the Third Brigade advanced gallantly, driving the enemy from 
two hills from the left of Colonel Cobham, and were ordered to report to 
Colonel Cobham. Orders were given Colonel Cobham to make every effort 
to secure and bring off the battery in his front. To this end Colonel Cob- 
ham was reinforced from the First, Second and Third Brigades, until his 
command numbered ten regiments. In the isolated position held by Colonel 
Cobham, it was impossible to erect even a slight barricade without receiving 
a terrible fire from the enemy, fifty yards distant. The only route of com- 
munication with Colonel Cobham was by way of ridges which were swept 
in most places by artillery and musketry fire from the enemy's main line. 
About 5 p. m. a division of the enemy's infantry debouched from the woods 
in front of the left of the Second Division, and charged in column, with the 
effort to gain possession of the ridges in our front. If successful, it would 
have exposed Colonel Cobham to attack from every side, and forced him 
to abandon his position, but the attack, though a spirited one, failed. About 
9 o'clock p. m., in the darkness, Colonel Cobham's men, with picks and 
.'••hovels, dug through the works in front of the guns. This work had to be 
silently and carefully done. The men crept on hands and knees to the Mttle 
dug fort, and after digging through the earthwork and removing the logs and 
stones, ropes were attached, and manned by brave men, while their brave 
comrades, with pieces aimed at the crest of the hill, covered them in their 
work. At about midnight four guns were removed and in our possession, 
but the enemy, on the alert, discovered the movement and springing over 
their breastworks, furiously attacked Cobham's line. Cobham held his po- 
sition, drove back the enemy, and sent four twelve-pounder brass pieces to 
headquarters. The enemy was pursued from Resaca, and the Oostenaula 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 587 

river crossed May 16. An advance was made on Cassville, May 18, and 
May 19 there was considerable skirmishing on the Cassville road. From 
May 19 to May 23, manoevrings were carried on near Cassville. On May 24 
an advance was made to Euharlee creek on Alabama road. A skirmish oc- 
curred at Owen's Mill, Pumpkin Vine creek bridge, May 25. The advance 
on this road was by the troops of the Second Division, Twentieth Army 
Corps, without support, the First Division, Twentieth Army Corps, being 
upon another road with the Fourteenth Army Corps, as it was supposed a 
large body of the enemy would be encountered by the Fourteenth Army 
Corps. General Hooker and staff were riding at the head of the Second 
Division with General Geary and staff, and upon the approach of the troops 
to Pumpkin Vine creek bridge, it was found that the enemy had fired the 
bridge. When General Hooker and staff and General Geary and staff at- 
tempted to put out the fire, the enemy's videttes, concealed in the woods on 
the bluffs upon the opposite side, fired at Hooker and Geary, but missed 
their aim. General Hooker ordered General Geary to throw across one 
regiment to dislodge them, and the Fifth Ohio was thrown across. They 
formed a regimental front and charged, but it was received with such a vol- 
ley that forty-eight men were killed or wounded, and a staff officer of the 
First Brigade killed. The whole division was then thrown "across, and they 
found, after considerable loss, that the enemy was in too strong a force to 
be routed. Orders had been sent as soon as the enemy was found in force 
in front, by the major-general commanding the corps, to march the First 
and Third Divisions to the point where the Second Division was engaged 

By 5 o'clock p. m. all three divisions were massed, with the Second 
Division in the center, the First Division on the right, and the Third Di- 
vision on the left. Each division was quickly formed for attack in column 
by brigades, the First Division leading, the Third Division next and the 
Second Division in reserve. Between 6 and 7 o'clock p. m. the Second Di- 
vision was ordered to push forward. The division moved rapidly through a 
dense woods, swept by a very heavy artUlery and musketry fire; the dis- 
charge of canister and shell from the enemy was rapid and terrific. 

The One hundred and ninth Pennsylvania, with portions of the Second 
and portions of the First Brigade, engaged the enemy at short range, driving 
them until after dark, when the Second Division was halted close under the 
enemy's batteries. 

Breastworks were thrown up during the night, and when dawn came 
the position held by the Second Division was found to be a ridge of con- 
siderable natural strength, confronting another ridge at the distance of 
eighty yards on the left, and three hundred yards on the right, on which was 
the enemy's main line. 

The operations were continued near New Hope Church until June 1, 
and from June 1 to June 5 the One hundred and ninth with the Second 
Division, Twentieth Army Corps, made a movement on the left of the 
army, and on June 7 took position near Acworth, Georgia. On June 10 
an advance was made to Kenesaw mountain, and on June 14, 15 and 16, 
a series of engagements took place at Pine Knob on Kenesaw range. On 
June 15 Pine Knob was carried by a charge. On June 16 captured the 
enemy's skirmish line. Skirmishing occurretl on June 17 and 18 in front 



588 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

of Kenesaw and at Noyes' creek. On June 22 there was an engagement 
at Kolb's house, near Marietta, on the Powder Spring road. 

On June 27 an assault was made on Kenesaw, south of Little Kenesaw, 
and General Hood, who had been placed in command of the Confederate 
army, was pursued toward the Chattahoochie river on July 3. Demonstra- 
tions took place along Nick-a-jack creek, at Turner's Ferry, July 4. The 
division skirmished with the enemy at Paice's Ferry, July 5, on the Chatta- 
hoochie river, and on July 16 they crossed at Paice's Ferry. On July 17 
bad a skirmish at Nancy's creek, and on July 19 the One hundred and 
ninth, with the Second Division, Twentieth Army Corps, covered the troops 
while constructing a bridge for the purpose of crossing Peach Tree creek. 
Here quite a spirited action took place ; our troops succeeded however 
in crossing, and, on July 20, was fought the battle of Peach Tree creek 
At 10 a. m. the skirmishers moved forward, supported by the First Brigade 
and followed by the Second Brigade. They crossed two timbered ridges 
and, after a sharp engagement, drove the enemy's skirmishers from a 
their ridge in the woods, and from a corn field on the right of it. The 
position gained at 12 m. was at once occupied by First Brigade in line. 
A section of Bundy's Battery went into position on the left of the division, 
in the edge of the wood, and opened an enfilading fire upon the enemy. 
The Second Brigade was now placed in two lines, in support of the First 
Brigade, and all the artillery of the division posted on the First Brigade's 
line, the Third Brigade massed on the ridge behind the Second Brigade. 
In front and to the right of the division was a high, narrow, timbered hill, 
about three hundred yards in advance of the main line, on which rested 
the right of the division skirmish line. 

The Thirty-third New Jersey of the Second Brigade was directed te oc- 
cupy this hill; the skirmish line advanced a short distance, when the enemy, 
heretofore concealed not more than seventj'-five yards in front, advanced in 
heavy force and poured into the skirmish line a deadly and continuing fire, 
forcing the skirmish line and the Thirty-third New Jersey back to the main 
line with considerable loss. Scarcely had they rejoined the main line, when 
the enemy in immense force rapidly and fiercely burst upon the right flank 
of the First and Second Brigades and pressed their flanks to their rear, at 
the same time charging upon the First Brigade, front and right. 

The Sixtieth New York of the Third Brigade, and One hundred and 
nineteenth New York, Seventy-third Pennsylvania and the One hundred 
and ninth Pennsylvania of the Second Brigade, stood by and supported the 
artillery fighting with the batteries on all sides holding the hill, whUe the 
balance of the division quickly changed front and formed in the midst 
of the battle, connecting with the First Division, Twentieth Army Corps. 
This was done by changing front to the right of the First Brigade and 
deploying the Second and Third Brigades in one line, connecting the 
Third Brigade's left with the First Brigade, and the Second Brigade's 
right with the First Division's left. During these changes the battle 
raged on every side with terrific fury. The One hundred and ninth and 
the four other regiments throughout all this times were holding the hUl 
witli artUlery . That hill was the key position of the entire battle ; once 
gained by the enemy the day was lost. The enemy perceiving its im- 



Pennsylvania at Oettysburg. 589 

portance surged in immense masses against it, while the division (except- 
ing the One Hundred and ninth and the other four regiments mentioned) 
was changing front andr rectifying its line. But the One hundred and 
ninth and these four regiments and batteries stood firm as rocks, and mowed 
down column after column of that vast struggling mass that charged them 
from three sides. General Geary, in an official report, says, "I have never 
seen more heroic fighting." For three hours the fury of the battle could 
not be surpassed. 

On Jul^ 22 our lined advanced with frequent skirmishes, driving the 
enemy into the city of Atlanta, Georgia, and establishing a siege of the 
city. On July 30 the One hundred and ninth with the Second Division, 
Twentieth Army Corps, advanced a picket line and captured one hundred 
and twenty prisoners. 

Heavy skirmishing was engaged in August 5 and 6. August 25 and 26 
they took position at Chattahoochie bridge, Paice's Ferry, and engaged 
the enemy. 

On September 2 the One hundred and ninth, with the Second Division, 
Twentieth Army Corps, were the first troops to enter and occupy the 
city of Atlanta. From September 2 until November 15 they were on 
duty in the city of Atlanta, and on November 15 commenced the celebrated 
march of Sherman to the sea. On the 15th an advance was made by 
Decatur, Stone Mountain, Social Circle and Madison, toward Milledge- 
ville. On the 19th we were at the railroad bridge, Oconee river, and on 
the 22d they occupied Milledgeville . SandersvUle was occupied on No- 
vember 26. During this celebrated march to the sea one of the most 
important services rendered by the troops, and one with the most disastrous 
results to the military strength of the enemy, was the destruction of the 
military lines of railroad. On November 27, 28 and 29 the One hundred 
and ninth with the Second Division, Twentieth Army Corps, accomplished 
a most important work in the destruction of the Georgia Central railroad, 
and from December 1 to December 8 the destruction of the Louisville and 
NashvUle railroad. This work of destruction was unique and complete; 
the rails were twisted and tied into knots, making their further use im- 
possible without re-rolling. 

The war seemed to have developed this special mode of destroying the 
military strength of the enemy. On December 10 Montieth swamp was 
reached, and on this same day commenced the siege of Savannah. The 
Second Division, Twentieth Anny Corps, the One hundred and ninth 
Pennsylvania, in the siege of Savannah, occupied the extreme left of the 
army line, resting on the Savannah river. The siege continued from De- 
cember 10 until December 20, when the city was occupied. 

Remained on duty in the city of Savannah from December 21, 1864, 
untU January 26, 1865, when the campaign of the Carolinas was com- 
menced. The One hundred and ninth and Second Division, Twentieth 
Army Corps, marched through Georgia and crossed the Savannah river 
as Sister's Ferry, February 7, into South Carolina, and advanced toward 
Barnwell. They crossed the North Edisto river on February 13, and the 
South Edisto, at Jones' bridge, February 14, and advanced to Columbia, 
South Carolina, February 16. Saluda river, at Mount Zion Church, was 



590 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

crossed February 19, Broad river, at Freshley's Mills, was also crossed, 
and Alston occupied February 20. We entered Winnsboro, South Carolina, 
February 21, and the same afternoon General Geary, commanding the 
Second Division, Twentieth Army Corps, received a communication from 
General Wade Hampton, commanding the Confederate cavalry. This 
communication was addressed to the commanding officer of United States 
troops occupying Winnsboro, requesting a safeguard of said troops to be 
placed upon the property in Winnsboro, and to remain until General Hamp 
ton should enter Winnsboro, when the safeguard would be ceturned to 
their command in safety. The request was complied with and the promise 
of General Hampton honorably kept. The communication was received 
by an officer of the One hundred and ninth at the division headquarters, 
and a detail of the One hundred and ninth constituted a part of the safe- 
guard which remained on duty. 

The Catawba or Wateree river was crossed at Rocky Mount February 
23, and arrived at Hanging Rock February 26. There remained until Feb- 
ruary 28, when an advance was made, crossing Lynch's creek at Hortons, 
March 1. On March 3 they skirmished with the enemy and occupied 
Chesterfield. The Great Pee Dee was crossed at Sneedsboro, North 
Carolina, March 5. From here they marched upon Fayetteville, North 
Carolina, and occupied it from March 12 to 14, and on March 16, arrived 
at Averasboro. From here they marched to Bentonville, and from Ben- 
tonville they marched and occupied Goldsboro, North Carolina, from March 
21 to April 10. On April 10 they advanced to and occupied Smithfield 
untU April 11, and from April 11 to April 13 they marched to Raleigh. 

Here the One hundred and ninth was consolidated with the One hundred 
and eleventh Pennsylvania. On April 26 General Johnston surrendered. 
The division marched to Washington, and on May 24 took part in the 
Grand Review. Remained in Washington on duty at the old Capitol prison 
till July 19, when the officers and men of the old and well-beloved regiment 
were mustered out and sent to their homes, after a continuous service 
of three years and seven months. 

The total enrolment was one thousand and fifty-five, the kUled and 
wounded was two hundred and thirty-nine, and those who died of disease 
and otherwise while in service, fifty-eight. The total loss during service, 
killed, died and wounded, amounted to two hundred and ninety-seven. 
Nearly one-third of the entire number enrolled lay down their lives or were 
wounded during their term of service. From May, 1862, until the sur- 
render of General Lee, the One hundred and ninth was constantly at the 
front, and an order during a fight which detailed them on duty away from 
the line of battle was received with disfavor and protest. 

The dangers of battle are over. The trials and hardships of the march 
have passed and the monotony of camp life has become a memory ; history 
alone is busy with the deeds of valor and actions of bravery of the One 
hundred and ninth Pennsylvania. 

This monument of granite which we this day dedicate is a page in the 
regiment's history. Monuments will add no lustre to the deeds of the dead, 
nor confer virtue upon their actions, but simply keep in remembrance those 
who, in the time of our country's peril, offeied their lives to avert the danger 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 591 

and save, for the benefit of posterity, a government founded upon the con- 
sent of the governed, and dedicated to the principles of human freedom and 
personal liberty. 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

110™ REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

September 11, 1889 
ADDRESS OP SERGEANT-MAJOR EDMUND SHAW 

LADIES, comrades and friends: — An army of more than one hundred 
thousand men splendidly equipped, carefully drilled and led by a 
courageous soldier, a thoroughly trained officer and a brilliant com- 
mander, had been beaten on a field of their own choosing by an inferior 
force and was compelled to seek safety by flight. Under these circum- 
stances it was not difficult for the mind of the commander of the armies 
of the South in Virginia, to reach the conclusion that the independence 
of the South as a nation must soon be acknowledged by the North. And 
to hasten the time of that acknowledgment he determined to move his army 
northward. 

Temporary success in the affairs of men is frequently mistaken for 
permanent good. No sooner had General Lee completed the burying of his 
dead and the replenishing of his cartridge boxes, than he put his army 
in motion, believing that a few more victories such as that achieved 
by him at Chancelloi-sville awaited him in the near future, and to secure 
these was now the business of the Army of Northern Virginia. But before 
breaking camp on the south bank of the Rappahannock he graciously ac- 
corded to General Hooker the privilege of returning to the battlefield 
of Chancellorsville and removing such of his wounded as had been found 
by the enemy unable to march to the South. This privilege, as a matter 
of course. General Hooker accepted and thereby necessarily encumbered 
his army with the care of more than 2,000 disabled soldiers and removed 
an obstacle from the road over which General Lee desired to move part 
of his army. With this obstruction out of the way, Lee's path was clear 
for a leisurely march northward. The ending therefore of the battle of 
Chancellorsville may be considered as the beginning of the battle of Gettys- 
burg . 
The march of the two armies from the South was a spectacle of magnifi- 



•Organized at Harrisburg, Huntingdon and Philadelphia from August 19, ISfH. to 
October 22. 1S62, to serve three years. It was consolidated into six Cos., December 81, 
1862. The ll'ith Penna. was consolidated with this regiment June 22, 1S64, Cos. D and 
G of the 115th as Co. D. Cos. B, E and K as Co. K, and A, C, F and I as Co. T. 
A new Co. was organized April 23, 1SC5, to serve one year and assigned to this regiment 
as Co. G. The original members (except veterans) were mustered out as their terms of 
service expired and the organization composed of veterans and recruits retained In service 
until June 2S, 1865, when it was mustered out. 



592 Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 

cent proportions, but weighed with momentous responsibilities which soon 
found their proper places on this field. It was a spectacle highly pleasing 
at the time to the Southern mind, but humiliating to the last degree to the 
Union sentiment of the North ; and whilst his movement may have had 
the appearance to the Southern mind at home of a grand holiday parade, 
in which General Lee was recognized as chief marshal, appointed to con- 
duct the Northern soldiers home, it had no such semblance to those who 
composed the moving hosts that were hourly approaching each other to 
renew the bloody work commenced and left unfinished less than sixty days 
before . 

Desolate indeed was the camp of the One hundred and tenth Pennsyl- 
vania Volunteers at Stoneman's Switch after the battle of Chancellors- 
ville. The regiment had gone into that battle with about three hundred 
men, of which number one-half had been killed, wounded and taken pris- 
oners in that battle. The commander of the regiment. Colonel James 
Crowther, had been shot on the field, the major, D. M. Jones, had 
been wounded and taken prisoner, the sergeant-major (he who addresses 
you to-day) had been severely wounded and taken prisoner. In fact all 
of the field officers there on duty were gone — excepting the adjutant. The 
line officers and their commands had met with losses in almost the same 
proportions. But it was not in the camp of the One hundred and tenth 
alone that despondency and gloom reigned supremely. The other regiments 
of the Third Corps, and especially those of the Third Division, had been 
so much depleted as to make necessary a reorganization of that corps, and 
a consolidation of the divisions and brigades of which it was composed. 
Major-General Whipple, who commanded the Third Division, had been 
killed and the regiments of that division had suffered so severely in killed 
and wounded as to practically obliterate that division ; so that in the re- 
organization of the Third Corps it was reduced from three to two divisions. 
By this consolidation the One hundred and tenth became a part of the 
Third Brigade, composed of the Third and Fifth Michigan, the Fortieth 
New York, the Seventeenth Maine and the One hundred and tenth Penn- 
sylvania Volunteers, and was commanded by Brigadier-General Philip R. 
De Trobriand, and was placed in the First Division commanded by Major- 
General David B. Birney. 

The Third Corps as in the past was commanded by Major-General Daniel 
E. Sickles. Thus reorganized the Third Corps was again prepared to enter 
the theatre of war and to play its part in the bloody drama soon to be 
enacted. 

The line of march taken by the One hundred and tenth brought the regi- 
ment to Potomac creek, Bealton Station, Bull run, Centreville, Gum 
Springs, Chantilly, Edwards' Ferry, Monocacy Junction, back again to 
Edwards' Ferry, back again to Monocacy Junction, Frederick City, Taney- 
town and Emmitsburg. To this latfer place the regiment had advanced 
by July 1, 1863, and Avas there resting whilst the main body of the Third 
Corps had been advanced along the Emmitsburg pike in the direction of 
Gettysburg, in support of the First Corps which had advanced a day's 
march beyond the position designed by General Meade for giving battle 
to General Lee in the struggle which all knew was near at hand. 



Pennsylvania at Gctiijshar;/. 593 

The First Corps was the vanguard of the Array uf tho Potomac, and 
was commanded by Major-General John F. Reynolds, who had been ordered 
forward with this corps to reconnoitre the enemy, ascertain his position 
and strength and to engage him with such energy as to prevent his pro- 
ceeding farther to the North, and by attaclcing and retreating to induce 
him to folk>w up and to accept battle on the ground selected by General 
Meade fifteen miles south of here. 

But early in the day this corps suddenly found itself engaged, not in 
manoeuvering and in the execution of movements of attack and retreat 
to decoy the enemy into the trap set for him by the commander of the 
Union armies, but in an effort to protect itself from a storm of battle 
which had broken upon it with such fury and by such overwhelming 
numbers in front, flank and rear as to obliterate all matured plans of 
battle and to compel the immediate presence of the entire Army of the 
Potomac to save from utter destruction on the following day the remnant 
of the hitherto invincible First Corps of the Union army, and making 
necessary other and improvised plans of battle by General Meade for the 
contest now entered upon and so unexpectedly begun . 

So that on July 1, 1863, instead of the corps, divisions, brigades and regi- 
ments, which composed the Union army, coming together and taking their 
places in orderly lines of battle on the banks of Pipe creek, as was intended, 
they were seen in the evening of that day and were heard during all of 
the night of that day, and were seen again in the gray morning of the 
following day, by hurried pace and steady tread, gathering into the fields 
and groves and valleys and upon the hills, which form the never-to-be-for- 
gotten battlefield of Gettysburg. 

As already stated, on July 1, 186.3, the One hundred and tenth had been 
halted in Emmitsburg, where it was resting when the report of the death 
of General Reynolds and the disaster of the First Corps was received. 
Let me stop here to remark that history has recorded the fact that early 
in the morning of July 1 the Third Corps, commanded by Major-General 
Daniel E. Sickles, had been halted near Emmitsburg by an order from 
General Meade, who was then directing the formation of a line of battle 
on the line of Pipe creek, between Middleburg and Manchester, in the 
State of Maryland, and that at 3 o'clock in the afternoon of that day 
General Sickles received the report of the disaster to the First Corps. 
He could not communicate with (General Meade, ten miles away, without 
a delay that might be fatal to the head of the National advance, so he 
took the responsibility of pressing forward to the relief of the sorely 
smitten First Corps, in violation of the orders given in the morning, or 
rather without orders from the commander of the army, and came upon 
the field at Gettysburg with his advance division just as the shattered 
columns of the First Corps were forming in line on Cemetery Hill, where 
he was joined before next morning by the balance of his corps, excepting 
two brigades, which had been left at Emmitsburg to hold the place. 

An intelligent and prompt comprehension of what was the right thing 
to do and the courage to do it in all previous emergencies, had character- 
ized the course of General Sickles and had made to shine brightly the stars 
upon his shoulders up to that time, and, assuming the responsibility of 



594 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

moviug his corps without orders to the support of those needing help, has 
made lustrous the record of that officer, and has placed his name among the 
most faithful, courageous and patriotic commanders of American soldiers, 
and in brilliant contrast with that of other officers in high command, whose 
conduct in similar emergencies on other fields, have brought humiliation 
and disgrace to the army of the Nation — through disobedience of orders, 
cowardice or envy, or through all combined. And whilst weak Congress- 
men and weak Senators, with the approval of a sympathizing President 
may, by legislation, restore a name to the army rolls, and compel payment 
by an unwilling people, of a salary unearned, they can never remove the 
stigma which such conflict has justly entailed, nor remove a judgment 
pronounced by an enlightened and discriminating public conscience. And 
it is to the honor and glory of the One hundred and tenth Pennsylvania 
Volunteers and to that of the other regiments which composed on that 
day the Thii-d Corps of the Union armies, that they had for their leader 
a commander such as that found in the person of Major-General Daniel E. 
Sickles. 

The Third Brigade and one from the Second Division had been left at 
Emmitsburg to hold the place whilst the balance of the Third Corps had 
been hurried forward to Gettysburg on the afternoon of July 1, and it was 
not until 2 o'clock in the morning of the next day that General De Tro- 
briand received orders to proceed with his brigade to Gettysburg, and at 
break of day the troops of his brigade were in motion. These two bri- 
gades were therefore the last of the Third Corps to leave Emmitsburg and 
the last to reach Gettysburg. The One hundred and tenth was the rear 
regiment in the line, and was, therefore, the rear guard of the Third Corps. 
Company C, of this regiment, was detailed to march in the rear and to 
drive before it all stragglers from the army. Captain J. C. M. Hamilton, 
who is with us to-day, was in command of this rear guard, and delights 
in telling some very interesting stories incident to this march. 

It was 10 o'clock in the forenoon of that day when General De Tro- 
briand reported to General Birney for duty with his brigade on the field 
at Gettysburg, and it was probably two hours later, or 12 o'clock noon, 
when the One hundred and tenth turned off the Emmitsburg road and 
passed over the field and through the groves of timber which lie at the 
foot and on the west side of Round Top, and came to a halt in the grove 
of timber near the foot on the west side of Little Round Top, and there 
became a part of the assembled thousands then and there marching and 
counter-marching with hurried pace to find their places in line of battle 
then assuming shape. 

It was here that the address of General Meade to the army was read 
to the regiment, and it was an hour later — or 1 o'clock — when Captain Ham- 
ilton's company left the Emmitsburg road and filed down the narrow road 
at the north side of the peach orchard and joined the regiment, then ad- 
vancing in the direction of the peach orchard to support the skirmish line, 
now hard pressed but holding on, a short distance north of the Emmitsburg 
road. The line of battle was being formed in the direction east and west 
along this road. 

At this hour the forces of the enemy were passing around the left of 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 595 

the National line and in the direction of Little Round Top, under cover of 
€he woods beyond the Emmitsburg road, and were protected by a heavy 
line of skirmishers. This movement of the enemy had attracted the at- 
tention of the commanders of several batteries of artillery stationed in the 
peach orchard and on the elevations in the ground north and in the rear 
of the peach orchard, and these batteries were firing at frequent intervals, 
under cover of which the One hundred and tenth took position immedi- 
ately south of the Emmitsburg road and inside of the peach orchard fence, 
where it remained but a few minutes, when it was moved by the left flank 
and to the right of the "Rose House" yard, and about fifty paces in ad- 
vance of the line of battle subsequently held. In this position it remained 
until 3.30 p. m., when it was ordered into line on the ground we now 
occupy, marching by the left flank over the ridge here to the north of 
us, and passing down into this ravine and taking position on the right of 
the Fifth Michigan Regiment then in line. 

This monument is supposed to occupy the center of the line, or the spot 
on which the color-bearer stood, and the flank-markers the right and left 
of the regiment while in the line of battle. In less than thirty minutes 
the picket line was driven in, followed by a heavy body of skirmishers 
quickly followed by columns of infantry, and the battle began. 

It was, therefore, about 4 o'clock p. m. when the One hundred and 
tenth met its old antagonist in the line of battle on July 2, 1863. Captain 
Rogers, who commanded the regiment after Major Jones was wounded, in 
his report of this battle, says that: "The battle continued with a de- 
termination to conquer or die until 6 p. m., when the enemy in our front 
feU back and the order to cease firing was given." It is impossible for any 
one to state correctly all of the incidents connected with a scene such as 
was enacted here between 4 and 6 o'clock in the afternoon of July 2, 1863, 
and, therefore, a description of the conflict should not be attempted. 

Those who may desire to draw pictures of this landscape as it appeared 
at that time, wiE find abundance of materials from which to indulge their 
fancies by scanning the list of kUIed and wounded, of those whose duty 
it was to defend and maintain the integrity of this portion of the Union 
lines, and remembering that from the field of carnage at Chancellorsville, 
the One hundred and tenth could bring only sixteen ofiicers and one hun- 
dred and thirty-six enlisted men to this field, a total of one hundred and 
fifty-two . 

Of this number, there were killed and wounded in this contest fifty-three, 
more than one-third of the entire number. The kUled were: Company A, 
first sergeant, Joseph H. Con; privates, Benjamin F. Barto, John Stod- 
dard; Company C, first sergeant, Samuel Tobias; private, John Walker; 
Company H, privates, H. M. Kinsel, Charles T. Gardner; Company I, first 
sergeant, Thomas M. Bell. The wounded were: Lieutenant-Colonel David 
M. Jones; Company C, Lieutenant Charles Copelin ; Company E, Captain 
William H. Hill; Company E, Lieutenant Francis Hoquest ; Company H, 
Captain Francis Ca.ssidy ; Company H, Lieutenant Frank B. Stewart; Com- 
pany A, privates Thomas Meaher, Adam Weight, John Troxell, John War- 
field; corporal, John Bezzner; privates, Richard Newman, Emery E. Wil- 
son; sergeant, Francis M. Burley ; privates, Enoch W. Edward, Benedict 



596 PeMnsylvania at Gettysburg. 

E. Miller; Company B, privates, Moses Miller, James M. Walls; Company 
C, sergeant, John Moore; corporal, Samuel Kinley ; privates, Thomas J. 
Greenland, Martin Gates, John E. Miller, Josiah Holsinger, George Lam- 
mison, Alexander Y. Hayes, James Irwin, Henry Powley ; Company E, 
privates, Patrick Conly, William Thomas, John Moran ; Company H, ser- 
geant, George Herrick, corporal, Joseph Eckley ; privates, Henry M. Beigle, 
Daniel Moore, John Fry, Jacob R. Bossert, Samuel Myer, James Harding, 
Peter Davis, Samuel Stiles, Henry Pryor, John H. Ermine; Company I, 
privates, George Howard, John Doyle. 

In giving honor to whom honor is due, in the matter of courage or 
bravery between the killed and wounded on the one side and the uninjured 
on the other, comparison must not be made. All came here and faced the 
enemy upon this line, on the same level, and offered their life blood in their 
country's cause. Of some the blood was demanded, and it was given. 
The others were no less willing to give, but the sacrifice of all was not 
required. All were of the 

'"Teu thousnnd score.s of loyal men 

Unused to war's alarms. 
Who laid aside the charms of peace. 

To learn the art of arms. 

"Who knew that home and love and life 
Are only dear to those 
' Who make a nation's sovereign will 

Supreme above its foes." 

From the position occupied by the One hundred and tenth in the line 
of battle, the regiment was not driven, and only withdrew when the line 
had been pierced on the right and on the left. It was an orderly retreat 
over the side of the hill eastward from here to a grove of timber beyond 
where the monument has been erected to the memory of General Zook. 
Here the regiment halted, stacked arms and bivouacked for the night. 

Early in the morning of the next day— July 3— preparations for a con- 
tinuance of the struggle were hurriedly being made by the commander of 
each army, for in the contests of the two previous days neither was satisfied 
with the result. 

In the course of this preparation, the One hundred and tenth was 
moved, from the position it occupied during the night, a short distance 
to the right, and near the headquarters of the Third Corps, where it re- 
mained about forty minutes, when it was moved to the position it occupied 
the day previous before going in to action, or near the foot of Little Round 
Top. From there it was moved hurriedly, at the hour of 1.30 p. m., to the 
rear of the line of battle formed by the Second Corps, commanded by Majoi-- 
General Hancock and in support of that line. 

From this position the surviving members of the One hundred and tenth 
who were so fortunate as to be present heard the roar of the two hundred 
pieces of artillery and witnessed the ever-to-be-remembered and desperate 
assault of Pickett's Division of the army of Lee upon the Union lines on 
July 3, 1863. 

The Third Corps was not called upon to assist in the repulse of this 
assault, and, consequently, the One hundred and tenth was not required to 
make any further sacrifices, excepting that it was here that Lieutenant 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 597 

Charles Copelin and Captain Hamilton were wounded by a shell which ex- 
ploded near them. 

At 8 o'clock in the evening, the Third Brigade, under the command of 
General De Trobriand, was moved forward and relieved a portion of the 
Second Corps and formed the picket line during the night. 

The One hundred and tenth occupied that part of the line immediately 
left of the clump of trees in the center of the Union lines. 

Here the regiment remained until July 6, when it took up its march with 
the army in general in pursuit of Lee's army now in retreat. 

Briefly told, this is the history of the One hundred and tenth Pennsylvania 
Volunteers in the Gettysburg campaign. 

But in this connection it is proper for me to answer the inquiry fre- 
quently made as to who were these men who composed the One hundred 
and tenth Pennsylvania Volunteers and whence came they? 

Giving names would not satisfactory answer the inquiry? These may 
be found on the muster rolls and amongst the archives of the government. 
I will, therefore, add that a majority of these men were of the very young 
men of our country of that day. They were the beardless boys of 1861, 
whose rollicking manhood and patriotic courage urged them to put on the 
habiliments of war in response to their country's call in a time of need for 
courageous men. 

They were the sons of the mechanic, the farmer, the laboring man, the 
merchant and the professional man of that day. They came from the city 
of Philadelphia and from the towns and villages and farms of Bedford, 
Blair, Centre, Clearfield and Huntingdon counties, and were the sons 
of the sturdy, industrious and patriotic people of those localities, who had 
no silver or gold with which to employ subsitutes or to pay exemption 
from the military service, but who tendered their own flesh and blood in 
the performance of a public duty. 

And let me linger here for a moment to remark in the language of Eng- 
land's great novelist, Charles Dickens: "That if household affections and 
loves are graceful things, then they are graceful in the poor. 

"The ties that bind the wealthy and the proud to home may be forged 
on earth, but those which link the poor man to his humble hearth are of 
true metal and bear the stamp of heaven. 

"The man of high descent may love the halls and lands of his inheritance 
as a part of himself, as trophies of his birth and power ; his associations 
with them are associations of pride and wealth and triumph. The poor 
man's attachment to the tenements he holds, which strangers have held 
before and may occupy again to-morrow, has a worthier root struck deep 
into purer soil. His household gods are of flesh and blood, with no aUoy 
of silver, gold or precious stone. He has no property but in the affections 
of his own heart, and when they endear bare floors and walls, despite 
of rags and toil and scanty fare, that man has his love of home from' 
God, and his rude hut becomes a solemn place. 

"In love of home the love of country haa its rise, and who are the 
truer patriots or the better in time of need — those who venerate the land, 

39 



598 Pennsylvania at Gettyshnrg. 

owning its wood and stream and earth and all that they produce, or those 
who love their country, boasting not a foot of ground in all its wido do- 
main ?" 



DEDICATION OF MONUMENT 

1 1 1™ REGIMENT INFANTRY* 

September 11, 1889 
ADDRESS OF CAPTAIN J. RICHARDS BOILE, D. D. 

COMRADES of the One hundred and eleventh Regiment Pennsylvania 
Veteran Volunteers : — I salute you ! Out of a thousand heroic mem- 
ories, as veteran soldiers of the Union, as the remnant of a bat- 
talion on whose escutcheon there was never a stain, I salute you! In the 
name of Cedar Mountain, where you were the last to leave the unequal 
field; of Antietam, on whose ground you received a stand of colors for 
gallantry fi'om your brigade commander; of Chancellorsville, where, with 
equal coolness, you withstood the foe in front, the enfilading batteries from 
the right, and the panic at the rear; of Gettysburg, where, in unpro- 
tected line, you wrenched the enemy from your own breastworks; of Wau- 
hatchie, where, at the midnight hour, you held at bay more, than thrice 
your own number; of Lookout ^lountain, where you beat the same enemy 
in the clouds; of Ringgold, where you marched and fought without rest or 
f odd ; of the four months' campaign from Resaca to Atlanta, which cul- 
minated with the surrender of the Gate City to your own commanding 
officer and the unfurling of your bullet-ridden colors from its city hall ; 
of the jolly jaunt "from Atlanta to the sea;" of Bentonville ; of the grand 
home-coming to the welcome of a grateful people, and of your final, honor- 
able discharge from military duty — I salute you ! As surviving comrades 
of the noble dead left on these scattered fields ; as citizens of a great 
Nation, which your service helped to rescue, retain and perpetuate; upon 
this spot, sanctified by patriot blood ; and on your reverent errand to this 
shrine to-day — from a full and glowing heart, respectfully, lovingly, 
proudly — I salute you ! 

More than twenty-six years have passed away since you stood shoulder 
to shoulder on this historic field, at the very crisis of our great civil 
war. — Then, the lurid air shrieked and the affrighted earth reeled under 
the shock of contending arms. Sheets of devouring flame burst from com- 
pact lines of battle. Death leaped from the mouths of a hundred massed 
batteries. Trees were denuded by rifle balls, and harvests were reaped, 
and the very soil was furrowed by exploding plowshares of destruction. 

'Organized at Erie in December. 1S61 and January, 1S62, to serve three years. The 109th 
Penna. was consolidated with this regiment March 31, 1S65. Ou the espiration of its 
term of seivice the original members (except veterans) were mustered out and the 
organization composed of veterans and recruits retained in the service until July 19, 
1S65, when iv was mustered out. 



^Kir^ 




Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 599 

Every shrub and rock was a magazine of fire, and for three awful days 
the elements were ablaze with eruptive energy. 

The darkened heaven veiled its face while the struggling hosts rose 
to the frenzy of battle over a nation's life, baptized with the spirit of 
war, and transformed by it, one hundred thousand men were dowered 
with heroic resolution. A spell of invincible power came upon them. 
The weak became strong, the sick were well, the strong were giants. 
Every man on both sides was a hero. Thought burned at white heat. 
Years of nervous energy were accumulated and expended in a single hour. 
A lifetime was compressed into a day. Supernal defiance was in every 
heart, and all things became possible, as two civilizations waited for their 
lives. Men felt not their wounds. They saw not death, or seeing, shout- 
ing and gladly died, or they lived, they knew not how, seemingly immortal. 
The awful majesty of conquest was upon them, they felt themselves in- 
vincible, until out of the fiery tempest of death the greater army prevailed 
and the nobler cause sat in victory upon the incarnadined field. 

"Ah, never, shall we, my comrades. 

Never shall the land forget 
How gushed the life-blood of her brave. 

Gushed warm with hope and courage yet. 
Upon the soil they fought to save!" 

To-day we stand here in the stillness of peace. The verdure that was 
blackened by the sulphurous storm, the soil that drank the flowing blood, 
the hills that shook in the blast of battle, the lines of resounding defenses, 
the little village, the over-arching skies, are all here, but in undisturbed 
repose. The echoes of war have fled from the wheatfield and Round 
Top, from the plain over which Pickett charged, and from the wood 
where Reynolds fell, and the great battlefield is as silent as the sleep 
of its victims on yonder hillside. The demon of strife has given place to 
the angel of peace, and his cruel wounds are healed by a heavenly touch. 
And it is our lofty privilege to return to this fateful and glorious spot, 
that we may, with bared heads and unsandaled feet, offer homage ro the 
God of battles and render the tribute of a grateful affection to the memory 
of our departed and heroic comrades. 

Gettysburg was not the Waterloo of the rebellion — although perhaps 
it could have been — but it was the pivot upon which the contest finally 
turned. It was the logical conclusion of the war. Until its date, it was 
the most important and decisive of all our battles, and in its moral effect 
it was not surpassed by any subsequent engagement. In every respect 
it affords a spectacle of intense interest to the student of the war, and 
one which, at this hour, cannot but engage our thoughts and fill our 
hearts. 

The forces participating in that battle were very evenly matched. They 
were men of one blood, and on each side were moved by a similar in- 
tensity of motive. They had met before on many a well-contested field. 
They were, in each case, thoroughly toughened and seasoned by prolonged 
campaigning, and were all veteran soldiers. Two months of rest after 
Chanccllorsville had put them in superb condition. And if these regi- 
mental organizations were skeletonized — as they were — by the casualties 



600 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

of extended service, the men actually present for duty were in the highest 
state of efficiency . The disparities between them, which have been so 
frequently noticed, were apparent only. If the Army of the Potomac were 
numerically the stronger, the Army of Northern Virginia had the more 
compact organization, being compressed into three strong corps against 
our seven weak ones ; and our advantage in numbers was still further 
neutralized by the fact that Lee, the beloved and trusted leader of the 
rebels, was at their head, while Meade had assumed our command but three 
days before the battle. On the other hand, if Lee's army was inspired, 
as it was, by the audacity of a Northern invasion, the army of Meade, 
Antaeus like, took new strength from the touch of its native soil. 

All things considered, therefore, the opposing forces were in substantial 
equipoise, and at their best. The conviction that the crucial hour of the 
national struggle had arrived was universal, and the battalions that con- 
verged upon Gettysburg on July 1, 1863, swung into line to meet it. 

A formidable host, consisting altogether of eighty-eight battalions of in- 
fantry, fourteen of cavalry, and one hundred and thirty-four batteries of 
artillery came thus into collision. The battle began at 8 o'clock on the 
morning of July 1 on Willoughby run, west of the village and beyond Mc- 
Pherson's Ridge, where Buford's cavalry met Heth's Division of A. P. 
Hill's approaching corps, and where, for two hours, his dismounted troopers 
held the enemy in check. General Reynolds arrived at 10 o'clock and 
brought his three divisions into action against Hill with brilliant success, 
until he gallantly fell at their head. Meantime Howard had come and his 
weak divisions were placed in line on the north to resist Ewell's heavy 
corps, which was appearing on the Heidlersburg road. Throughout the 
afternoon the conflict raged upon McPherson's and Seminary Ridges until 
4 o'clock, when the Union forces retired to the south of the town and 
occupied Cemetery and Gulp's Hills on the right and the Round Tops 
on the left which they began to fortify. Here Hancock met the engaged 
troops and took command, and, assisted by Warren and others, formed 
and protected the final line of battle. That night the First and Eleventh, 
and one division each of the Third and Twelfth Corps were on the ground, 
while all of Hill's and Ewell's commands were present, and Longstreet, 
excepting Pickett's Division, was at Marsh creek, only four miles away. 
The next morning all the remaining troops of both armies were concen- 
trated upon the field except Sedgwick's Sixth Corps, which did not arrive 
until 4 o'clock in the afternoon, when it took position on the left. 

The situation compelled Lee to assume aggressive action, and he de- 
termined to attack Meade's left at Round Top, with Longstreet, using 
Ewell on the Union right as a diversion. Unexpected, and for us for- 
tunate, delays, however, prevented the movement until between 3 and 4 
o'clock p. m. About 3.30 Longstreet, in two divisions, and with great 
vigor, assaulted, and attempted to turn, Meade's left flank, and a desperate 
engagement of two hours ensued. The angle in the Union line at the 
peach orchard was broken in, the wheatfield was threshed over with human 
flails. The Devil's Den was carried, a terrific hand-to-hand encounter oc- 
curred on the sides of Little Round Top, Humphreys' Division was pressed 
backward to Cemetery Hill, Birney's Division was exhausted, and Sickles 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 601 

was badly wounded. General Meade was present and had his horse shot 
under him. The battle had been fierce and deadly, but was thus far 
undecisive. Still the Union lines were maintained, and General Ijong- 
street himself acknowledged that "little had been accomplished towards 
victorious results." 

Meantime Ewell's troops had been engaged at the other end of the line. 
Johnson had attacked Gulp's Hill and Early and Rodes had attempted to 
carry Cemetery Hill. On the latter eminence the lines were penetrated 
and a hand-to-hand fight raged with great fury upon the hillside, but, after 
an hour's determined conflict, the rebels were driven from the field. That 
night the left was strengthened, some minor dispositions were made at 
other points on the line, and in a council of war held at headquarters. 
General Meade resolved to await another day's developments before as- 
suming the offense. 

The last and the decisive day of the battle was Friday, July 3. I^ee, 
with a spirit that must ever challenge admiration, had planned three sepa- 
rate assaults on so many parts of our lines. First, Longstreet was to 
repeat his demonstration against Round Top with the purpose of turning 
it. Secondly, Ewell was, at daylight to attack Meade's right, and, thirdly, 
after a concentrated cannonade had prepared the way. Cemetery Ridge 
and the Union center were to be charged. As a matter of fact, however, 
Longstreet's attempt on the left was abandoned, Ewell's movement against 
the right was unexpectedly checked by events that will be recited presently, 
and the general engagement of the day narrowed itself to Pickett's famous 
attack upon the center, and the subsequent cavalry battle between Gregg 
and Stuart on Meade's right flank. 

Nothing more thrilling and dramatic in battle can be conceived than 
was this spectacular climax of the series of engagements which took place 
on the field of Gettysburg. The day was cloudless, the summer was at 
its full, and the ripening harvests gleamed in the valley between the in- 
vested heights. Massed along Seminary Ridge for two miles one hundred 
and fifty rebel cannon were trained upon the Union center. Facing them, 
on Cemetery Hill, were half as many Federal guns. Under the protec- 
tion of this tremendous body of artillery Lee proposed to hurl 15,000 men 
against this part of Meade's line. Pickett's Division, of Longstreet's 
Corps, consisting of 5,000 strong, fresh, eager troops, were personally 
selected by the rebel commander to lead the charge. They were to be 
supported by two equally strong divisions from Hill's Corps. At 1 o'clock 
the artillery duel opened, and for two hours two hundred and thirty guns 
volleyed their thunders. Then, on order, the Union batteries slackened 
fire, and Longstreet, thinking they were crippled, with deep emotion and an 
oppressive sense of his responsibility, silently signaled Pickett to lead his 
men forward. I confess my admiration for the splendid courage with which 
that order was obeyed. Fourteen hundred yards stretched between those 
opposing lines, but into that open space, into the teeth of the murderous 
batteries in their front and from Round Top on their right, those brave 
men marched, in closed column, as if on drill. On they went, through 
smoke and shot, and shell, into cross-currents of fire, into a cyclone of 
death that tore their ranks asunder; on, across the fields, up to the trenches. 



602 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

up to the batteries; on, against the Union line, which quivered, and bent, 
and rebounded before their fierce impact; on, still, into a supreme moment 
of accelerated fire and desperate man-to-man grapple, in which every 
struggling form seemed about to be annihilated, until they were at length 
flung back, a few helpless, bleeding fragments upon their paralyzed sup- 
port and dismayed reserves I "More than two thousand men," says General 
Longstreet, "had been killed or wounded in thirty minutes." 

It was the last magnificent effort of an over-matched foe ! Incredible 
valor had been met by invincible valor! The great crucial battle was over. 
Lee at last was beaten. His invasion of the North was ended, and Gettys- 
burg became the inspiring watchword of the Nation's hope ! 

And now, gentlemen, what part did you take in those forever memorable 
scenes? 

At the date of this battle your regiment belonged to the Second Bri- 
gade, Second Division of the Twelfth Army Corps. That brigade is gen- 
erally assigned by historians of the battle of Gettysburg, to the command 
of the late Brigadier-General Thomas L. Kane. Technically it was Gen- 
eral Kane's Brigade, but as a matter of fact that officer had been absent 
from his post on sick leave for several weeks before Gettysburg, during 
which time the brigade was commanded by Colonel George A. Cobham, 
Jr., of the One hundred and eleventh Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers. 
On the morning of July 2 General Kane arrived upon the field, still dis- 
abled and in an ambulance, just as the brigade was taking its position, 
and resumed command for a few minutes only, when, because of his 
physical disability, he returned it again to Colonel Cobham, who led the 
brigade in all its operations during the battle — the general remaining 
gallantly but inofficially upon the field. It is but simple justice to the 
memory of a modest, brave and meritorious ofiicer whom we all honored, 
and who, fifteen months later, at Peach Tree Creek, Georgia, fell gloriously 
while leading his regiment, that record should here be made of Colonel 
Cobham's services at Gettysburg, and I do it gladly. His efficiency at 
the head of the brigade was officially noticed in the report of his superior 
officer. General Kane, who also recommended him for a promotion — that 
came, alas! too late to reward him on earth. 

On July 1 the regiment marched with its division from Littlestown, Pa., 
via the Baltimore turnpike, and at sunset was established in position by 
General Geary, just north of Little Round Top, on the extreme Union 
left, in support of a battery. Here it lay all night on its arn^s. Early 
the next morning the division was moved to Gulp's Hill to join General 
Slocum's other troops at the opposite extremity of the Union line, where, 
at 6 o'clock, it went into position on the right of the Twenty-ninth Penn- 
sylvania Regiment, and immediately on the left of General A. S. Williams' 
division of the Twelfth Corps. Here a substantial breastwork of logs 
and stone was completed by 9 o'clock, within which the command remained 
undisturbed while Longstreet's battle was raging around the hill crest 
we had vacated early in the morning. In the evening twilight the brigade 
was moved from its works one mile to the rear along the Baltimore turn- 
pike to the point where that road crosses Rock creek, but was at once 
countermarched to its position on Gulp's Hill. That fruitless movement 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 603 

out of the lino was most ill-timed aiul unfortunate. While the command 
was gone, the enemy were concentrating and advancing their forces across 
Rock creek and up the face of the hill, and finding our unoccupied en- 
trenchm(>nts, took possession of them. As our brigade ro-approachod its 
works through the woods and in the darkness, with the Twenty-ninth Penn- 
sylvania in front, it was fired upon from its own trenches. Not knowing 
what had occurred in his absence, and uncertain whether the volley came 
from our own troops or from the foe. Colonel Cobham withdrew the bri- 
gade to the turnpike, and advancing thence to the rear of General Greene, 
who had not left the works, led his men back into line at a right angle 
from their old position. From this refused line, Lieutenant-Colonel Walker, 
commanding the regiment, at 11 o'clock, was ordered to replace the One 
hundred and eleventh Pennsylvania in the trenches. Two companies on 
the left hand entered the works when a sharp volley from the right and 
rear, at a distance of one hundred feet, checked the movement, and dis- 
closed the facts to our officers. Lieutenant-Colonel Walker, with his usual 
coolness and precision, instantly formed the remaining companies of the 
battalion at right angles with the entrenchments, to face the fire, and sent 
forward scouts to reconoitre his front. They found the enemy sheltered 
in our rifle-pits, and the regiment remained where it was until 3 o'clock 
the next morning, when an effort was made to withdraw the general line 
slightly to the rear, under cover of the darkness that preceded the dawn. 
Lieutenant-Colonel Walker was thus retiring his men, one at a time, with 
the utmost caution, when the vigilant enemy detected the movement, and, 
supposing the position was being vacated, opened fire. The volley was 
promptly returned by the One hundred and eleventh Regiment, which then 
took its position in the new line, and remained there alert but undisturbed 
during the half hour that intervened before daylight. Thus passed the 
night of July 2. 

When day broke on the eventful morning of July 3, the situation on 
Gulp's HUl was as follows: Ruger was upon the Union right, his line ex- 
tending well down the hill towards the turnpike. Geary, with our division, 
occupied the crest of the hill, in the center, facing the northeast, and Wads- 
worth was on his left, his line bending westward and connecting with 
Robinson on Cemetery Hill. Close before these troops, and on the eastern 
slope of the hill, was the rebel General Johnson's command which had 
been reinforced during the night and now numbered seven strong brigades. 
It was a detachment of these troops that had seized the vacated trenches 
of our brigade on the previous evening; and it was they Avho were to make 
the first offensive movement on the 3d. At day-dawn firing began on 
the picket line and the enemy's column, closed in mass, came on with a 
defiant yell. They were halted with a heavy fire and compelled to seek 
shelter behind the trees and boulders with which the hill was covered. A 
stubborn struggle for six hours resulted when a desperate bayonet cliarge 
by the enemy was repulsed with heavy loss, and the foe was forced finally 
beyond the breastworks. During this period, as the various regiments ex- 
hausted their ammunition, they were relieved, one at a time, to refill their 
cartridge boxes and clean their rifles. Twice the One hundred and eleventh 
Pennsylvania Regiment expended all its cartridges, and at the clo.se of 



604 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

the conflict it was found that it had used one hundred and sixty rounds 
of ammunition per man ! At 10 o'clock Shaler's Brigade of the Sixth Corps 
relieved Cobham's exhausted men and they withdrew for food and rest. 
At 2 o'clock the command again took its place in the trenches and main- 
tained a desultory fire throughout the afternoon and evening. But the 
battle on Meade's right had ended with the repulse of the enemy's charge 
in the morning, and at daylight on the morning of the 4th Johnson's force 
had disappeared from our front. 

Upon the field where this determined and important — but not exploited — 
engagement took place. General Kane reported that five hundred dead 
were found, and, within an area of two acres, 1,803 stands of abandoned 
arms were gathered up. Some of the rebel dead lay on line with our own, 
showing how close and desperate had been the in-fighting, and at the close 
of the war, one military writer has declared "that the scene of this con- 
flict was covered by a forest of dead trees ; leaden bullets proving as fatal 
to them as to the soldiers whose bodies were thickly strewn beneath them." 

It was this gallant and successful defense of Gulp's Hill, so early in 
the day, that led to the miscarriage of the second of Lee's principal move- 
ments of the 3d of July, to which I have referred, viz: His extended as- 
sault of the Union right, in force, by Ewell's Corps. 

Of our regiment's share in the engagement Lieutenant-Colonel Walker 
says in his ofiicial report: 

In this fight about half of my regiment was in open line, fighting a desperate foe be- 
hind the very rifle-pits we had built for our own protection. I am proud to say my men 
fought feeling that they were Pennsylvanians in Pennsylvania. • • • I wish to 
mention as deserving praise for great bravery and coolness. Captains Woeltge, Thomas, 
and Warner; also that Sergeants Henry Dieffenbach, George Selkregg, Andrew W. 
Tracy, Andrew J. Bemis, John L. Wells and Mills F. Allison, and Privates John Hughes 
and Orrin Sweet deserve mention. 

We lost five men killed, viz: Sergeant Ebenezer F. Allen, Company C, 
and Privates Charles Miller and John M. Richardson, Company B ; John 
Sheemer, Company B, and Orlando S. Campbell, Company K; and sixteen 
were wounded, of whom Theron P. Swap, of Company H, died on the 
6th. These casualties may now appear slight, but they represented about 
one-fifth of the brigade's loss out of a total number engaged in the brigade 
of only six hundred and thirty-two men. 

The 4th day of July, 1863, the eighty-seventh national anniversary, was 
spent by us in burying the dead in our front; and on Sunday, the 5th, 
the regiment returned to Littlestown to join in the pursuit of Lee's re- 
treating army ; and thereafter to continue in active service in the east and 
west, during two additional years, throughout which it failed not to add to 
its early honors on many another hard-fought field . 

And now, at an interval of nearly a quarter of a century after the war 
for the Union closed in complete triumph, we, representing the survivors 
of our gallant and beloved battalion, meet here to-day for the performance 
of a tender and patriotic duty. Upon the exact spot where our command 
expended one hundred and sixty rounds of ammunition per man, on July 
3, 1863, we propose to unveil this beautiful monument to the service of 
the regiment and to the memory of other comrades who then and here 
yielded up their lives to their country. 



Pennsylvania at Gettyshurg. 605 

Our thoughts in this hour are, therefore, of necessity, in the first place 
personal. We have recalled before us those young men of whom the for- 
tune of war demanded the highest sacrifice, and to-day we write the story 
of their heroism upon this shaft for the perusal of coming generations. 
These brave men died while the great issue was yet undecided. They 
felt not the thrill nor shared the acclaim of the final victory. For them 
there was no glad home coming, no return to wife or mother, no civic 
crown, no earthly applause. They fell in the thick of battle sustained only 
by their faith rewarded only by the consciounsness of duty done. It is 
little, indeed, that we can do to requite their sacrifice, but by this act 
t0;day we afiirm they shall never be forgotten ! Henceforth forever here 
stands a visible altar from which the incense of that sacrifice shall per- 
petually ascend to mingle with that of other similar altars and make this 
field, from Gulp's Hill to Round Top, a fragrant temple of the Nation's 
dead ! With the twenty-five hundi^ed others who fell within the Union 
lines in this battle we canonize these men in the paradise of National 
heroes, and this monument is the symbol of their apothesis ! There let it 
stand, and while its granite finger points upward let the American people 
confess their debt to those whose valor it commemorates ! 

And not to them alone do we dedicate it. From first to last our regi- 
ment lost by death two hundred and seventy-five officers and men. Their 
dust lies to-day in widely separated graves, many of them unmarked and 
unknown. From the Potomac to the Cumberland, from the Cumberland 
to the Savannah, and from the Savannah back again to the Potomac, 
they sleep upon their arms, on well-earned fields. Theirs was the devo- 
tion and theirs the sacrifice of the men who fell here ! They are all equals 
in fame. Is there not a sense, then, in which this, our only battle monu- 
ment, is for them all? The meaning of this shaft intensifies before this 
thought; our obligation heightens in its presence, and I am sure I do not 
transcend your purpose when I say that we dedicate this memorial column, 
not alone to our comrades who died at Gettysburg, but to the whole body 
of our regimental dead ! To us it shall stand a monument to their several 
and united virtues and sacrifices, and while it endures the least and 
humblest of them all shall not lack a tombstone or an epitaph ! 

So, also, this monument while it commemorates our dead, voices as well 
the services of the living. Battles are not won solely by those who die 
in them. There is a necessary and prevailing heroism, that, escaping 
personal death, braves the accumulating perils of the contest and forces 
victory from them! A heroism, whose privilege is endurance, and whose 
test is active faithfulness. Gettysburg, therefore, has heroes other than 
those whose graves crowd her national cemetery, and the One hundred and 
eleventh Regiment Pennsylvania Volunteers had, in that battle, many a' 
Spartan-hearted soldier whose life was not then required of him. In addi- 
tion to its men who died, it had there living men who closed their ranks 
with sterner resolution as their comrades foci ; men who peered vigilantly 
into the darkness the night through, with their dead at their feet, and the 
breath of the foe upon their cheeks ; men who delivered their fire for six 
hours into the serried ranks opposing them ; men whose hearts the rebel 
yell could not dismay, nor the bayonet charge appal; men who, in one 



600 Pennsijlvania at Gettysburg. 

word, had the opportunity and the nerve to stand out the battle! It had 
such men there, I say, with shoulder straps and without, and upon these 
men, and their fellows, whom death spared, devolved the final issue of the 
struggle, and bravely, grandly, they met it. I submit that their service 
is interwoven with that of their fallen comrades, and that this monument 
stands here from this day to attest alike the sacrifice of the dead and 
the prowess of the living upon the field ! 

But, my friends, the setting up of this monument means vastly more 
than all this. That shaft is not only an expression of our respect and af- 
fection for the men, living and dead, who served in our regiment in this 
battle — it is a sacred memorial, as well, of the cause for which they 
fought ! It commemorates an issue that involved our land in four years 
of relentless war, and that cost, besides nearly three billions of money, 
more than three hundred thousand human lives ! That sacrifice was ap- 
palling. It draped the Nation in garments of woe, and in its effects is 
not yet outlived. And it was justified by the crisis. The issue at stake 
more than paralleled the cost of, and explains and recompenses the sacri- 
fice ; and this is the significant and ultimate proclamation of these battle- 
monuments. Distance has already mantled the rugged outlines of the war 
period with a softening indistinctness, and time is obliterating the sharpness 
of their impress from the public mind. The agonizing days when the 
fate of earth's newest and best civilization trembled in the balance over 
the abyss of destruction; when, from the great genius whom God had 
placed in the chair of state to the humblest child in all the land, every loyal 
heart throbbed and prayed and struggled for the Nation's life; when, 
every ten minutes, for four awful years, some human life was demanded 
and given, and when the tumultuous tides of public feeling, sweeping away 
all other intents, poured into the issue with the promise of the last dollar 
and the last life — these days of intense, vicarious, desperate suffering and 
devotion, are passed away. The throes of the struggle are ended, and a 
new generation that felt themr not and cannot comprehend their reality 
has appeared. It is well that this is possible, and we are thankful that 
it's true. But never while time endures and the emblem of the American 
Republic floats, can the Nation permit the issues of that contest to be 
forgotten, nor their ethics to be misunderstood. The facts that precipi- 
ated the war of the Rebellion are historic, and are written in letters of 
blood. The principles upon which that rebellion was incited are funda- 
mental to our civilization and government, and can never be abdicated 
nor compromised. The results of that contest are supreme and final, 
and must be acknowledged and accepted throughout the land forever ! A 
thousand centuries of time can neither vary nor explain them away, and 
•men must not — and by the sacred memory of the Nation's dead, they shall 
not — multiply or overturn them ! 

There is, at least, one body of men among us whom neither the lapse of 
time nor the sophistries of foolish or selfish sentimentalities can cheat in 
this matter — the veteran soldiers of the Republic. To them the war for 
the preservation of the Union can never become ancient history or a 
questionable expedient. It was, and is, to them the holiest incident of 
their civil life. It was, and is to them, a defense almost to the limit of 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 607 

the Nation's resources, of all that is vital and precious in free institu- 
tions, against premeditated treason and armed and vindictive rebellion. 
It was, and is, and ever shall be, to them the execution of an invincible 
resolve that "government of the people, by the people, and for the people 
shall not perish from the earth." And, therefore, while the Union veteran 
does not now feel, and has never felt, one impulse of resentment towards 
those who were lately in arms against the government — for the issue was 
not personal between him and them ; and while he accords to the mass 
of the Southern people perfect sincerity of purpose during the years 1861-65, 
yet does he insist that the men who then made war against the constituted 
authority of the United States, or incited others so to do, were, by that 
act, either misleading or misled rebels, and as such, were guilty of the 
highest offense known to the State. Free citizenship is by its very nature 
vested with the responsibility of personal loyalty to the authority conferring 
it, and that responsibility cannot be abdicated without crime. But the 
South did this thing. She declared the Republic dissolved. She reviled it. 
She renounced her allegiance to it. She marshaled her armies against it. 
She made war upon it. She attempted its destruction. The volunteer 
soldiery of the Nation were called forth to prevent the consummation of 
this fratricidal wickedness. By the help of the God of righteousness they 
did prevent it, and hence they believe and declare in the words of the 
late President Garfield, himself their comrade, that, "The war for the 
Union was right — everlastingly right ! The war against the Union was 
wrong — eternally wrong!" Every Union soldier's oath of enlistment, every 
dead soldier's grave, every living soldier's scars, every man that wore the 
blue in all the land is a proclamation of this inevitable fact, and when the 
last living witness thereto shall have passed away, then will these battle- 
tombs and the glory of the saved Nation declare it to all the world forever 

And if the successful war which our soldiers waged for the Union was 
right, then the results of that war are final and just. These results com- 
prehend the affirmation, first, that the national fabric is indestructible. 
It is the unit of our political structure, and cannot be dissolved. Secession 
from it is impossible and rebellion within it is excuseless because its organ- 
ism provides evermore for the peaceful and lawful correction of all civil 
imperfections. Its government reverts perpetuall.v to the people. They are 
sovereign, and their will cannot be subverted. Despotism or tyranny is 
impossible, justice is inevitable, and, therefore, there can never arise a 
true motion for assaulting the State by violence, and no argument for civil 
war can ever again be formulated among us. A rival nationality can never 
be carved out of our territory. 

The results of the war mean, secondly, the absolute civil equality of all 
men before the law. Slavery died in the Union trenches. The bondman 
became at once a freeman, a patriot soldier, and a legal citizen under the 
transfiguration glory of the mighty conflict. His loyal heart and his shed 
blood proclaimed him worthy of the proud investiture, and the pen point 
of the immortal Lincoln knighted him in the chivalry of manhood. His 
right to himself is henceforth to be unchallenged. His political rights are 
as sacred as those of any other citizen. The United States of America 



608 Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 

have guaranteed to him freedom, peace, and protection in the exercise of 
every personal and civil function, and the mandate of the war is that 
wherever the starry flag floats he shall enjoy these gifts. This enlarge- 
ment of human liberty won by the great contest is abridged, it is denied, 
wherever the impartial perogative of every citizen, white and black. North 
and South, is in any sense restricted or overthrown. The Nation is pledged 
to universal manhood suffrage, and its promise must be redeemed to the 
letter, and in the spirit of the pledge, or it is dishonored ! 

The results of the war imply, finally, the acceptance, in good faith, of 
this new political order by the Southern people. That conflict was de- 
cisive, it was, in its issue, absolute. The rebellious armies were con- 
quered. The idea which animated them was exploded. It no longer 
exists. The whole scheme of a "Southern Confederacy" has collapsed and 
perished. There remains not even a "lost cause." The Union was literally 
and unconditionally vindicated, and it therefore had the right to impose 
terms upon the vanquished. You and I remember when not only the de- 
feated South but the civilized world listened with bated breath for the an- 
nouncement of those terms. What were they? The punishment, by death 
or exUe, of the leaders of the rebellion? The imposition of hard condi- 
tions upon the people? The demand of a war indemnity? Not at all. 
Other nations might thus afflict their prostrate enemies, but it remained 
for General Grant at Appomattox to parole Lee's soldiers to their homes, 
and bid them retain their animals for individual purposes; it remained 
for the United States Government to pardon every man that had drawn 
his sword against it, on the simple condition of his swearing allegiance to 
the Constitution, and with the insurrectionary States to resume their sus- 
pended civil functions, and so to welcome again their representatives to 
the haUs of legislation I That was magnanimity unparalleled. It was 
Christianity exemplified. It was the spirit of the forgiving and gentle 
Lincoln nationalized ! It was the holy and fitting climax of a contest which 
from the beginning had been waged "with malice towards none, with 
charity for all," and of no act of the Nation during the war period am I 
more proud than of this. It was an appeal to fraternal impulse which could 
not be in vain, and it made the basis of restored Union complete. There- 
after there could be no sectionalism, much less any alienation, among the 
real manhood of the Nation, for nothing less could be asked, nothing more 
could be given. 

If there were friction and injustice in the process of restoring the civil 
equilibrium of the rebellious States under the new order, as there were, it 
may be said that these things were not intended, and their avoidance was 
not possible. The spirit of the Government was humane and magnanimous 
from first to last, and is worthy of all praise. 

The South has been, and is, on its honor before these conditions. As 
it meets them frankly it attests its worthiness. Its task has been difficult, 
it's true, but it must be wrought out, and he is no friend who would be- 
guile it from its duty. The South has no grievance against the United 
States. It grievance is against the misguided and wicked men who led 
it, despite its judgment, into rebellion. The issue of the war was the 
salvation not only of the Nation but of the Southern people. It rescued 



Pennsylvania at Gettysburg. 609 

them from the burden of a fatal domestic iniquity. It opened to them the 
door of a real and great prosperity. It gave them the impulse of a new 
and better life. It perfected their national homogeneity. Their loss is 
gain, and every dictate of wisdom and patriotism binds them to the new 
present. Loyalty to the Nation is loyalty to themselves. It is the pledge 
of their peace and the promise of their prosperity. 

The South, the real South, I verily believe, understands this and is 
honestly following forth this lesson of the war, and therefore it is that 
the service we perform here to-day is indicative of an additional and final 
fact — that of national reconciliation. Surely the grave is the end of earthly 
strife. The tomb mutely reconciles all human differences — it heals every 
wound and lulls all storms at last. Within its solemn portals all bitter- 
ness decays, and from it faith, and hope, and love, find their resurrection. 
Beneath these memorial monuments are sunk the graves not indeed of 
our fallen comrades but, let us fondly hope, of disunion and sectional aliena- 
tion. These latter evils, and not the brave men who charged these hills, 
were our real foes, and let us thank God they died. And above their resting- 
place let North and South clasp hands in indissoluble brotherhood. Never 
again can the one be arrayed against the other. Their wounds now unite 
them. They each see the right. They feel the throb of kinship and 
destiny. Separating barriers have melted in the fierce heat of battle; 
chasms are closed ; for' the first time the American people are one people, 
and their united strength will perpetuate and enlarge and ennoble the Nation 
forever. The bow of peace spans the national sky and the song of con- 
cord is in the national heart. At New York, in April last, the blue and 
the grey kept step to the music of the Nation's centennial, and men who 
fought at Gettysburg were rivals only in patriotic boasts. From the 
nettle war we have plucked the flower peace, and this lovely flower in aU 
the beauty of its perfect bloom we lay upon our unveiled monument to-day. 
The dream which cheered the hearts of our brave boys as they fell 
asleep, the hope which sustained the courage of their fellows as they 
pushed on through the weary years of the contest; the consummation for 
which wise men planned and devout men and women prayed are realized ! 
All has fully come! The work was not done in vain. It has fr'iited 
in universal benediction, and to this achievement, as well as to the 
heroism of the struggle itself, do we dedicate this impressive memorial. 
While it abides let it attest a Nation's salvation, a peace bravely won, a 
lesson manfully heeded, and a civilization unified, enlarged and perfected. 

And now, having rendered this oflice of love to those of whom, and 
that of which I have spoken, let us turn hence with our faces toward 
the future. Our earthy sun seeks the western sky, but our day is Dot 
yet done, nor is our discharge from duty gained. As our martyr President 
said on this field while the thunder of conflict was stUl upon it, the brave 
men who died here dedicated it more sacredly than can any poor words 
of ours; and it remains for us only to dedicate ourselves, by the inspiration 
of their example, to the work that still lies before us. So let us do today, 
and carry from this place of tender and thrilling memories, a new d.>votc- 
ment to all that pertains to an enlightened patriotism and an intelligent 
faith. 



